---
locale: "en"
updated_at: "2025-10-24T16:00:47.133Z"
canonical: "https://www.isdecisions.com/en/userlock/docs/reference/modules/consoles"
---

# UserLock Consoles

UserLock offers two administration consoles: the Windows Console and the Web Console (Web App). Both consoles are now functionally identical and provide the same features for monitoring, administration, reporting, and incident response.

## Why the consoles matter

The consoles are the primary way to manage UserLock. They allow administrators to:

- Configure UserLock **access policies** and settings.
- Manage the **UserLock agents**.
- Monitor **active sessions** across the network.
- Respond to **security incidents **in real time.
- Assist users with **MFA **requests and access issues.
- Generate, export, and analyze **reports**.

## Desktop Console

- ✅ Automatically installed on the same server as UserLock.
- ✅ No additional setup or configuration required.
- ⚙ Runs under the same permissions as the UserLock Server service.

> **Note**
>
> Until version 12.2, the Desktop Console could be installed on any workstation for remote management.
> 
> Since version 13.0, it is restricted to the UserLock Server host to enhance security by limiting administration to controlled environments. 
> 
> Use the **Web Console** for remote administration.

## Web Console

- ✅ Required for remote administration.
- ✅ Identical functionality to the Desktop Console.
- ✅ Can be installed on the same server or another Windows host with IIS role.
- ✅ Accessible from any modern browser (Edge, Chrome, Firefox).
- ✅ Centralized management without requiring additional desktop installations.

> **Note**
>
> - For details on how to install the Web Console, see the [installation guide](/userlock/docs/guides/installation/web-console).
> - For troubleshooting common issues, see the [troubleshooting guide](/userlock/docs/support/troubleshooting/web-console).

## Permissions

Permissions to access and use the consoles are managed in the [Permissions section](/userlock/docs/reference/server-settings/permissions) of the UserLock server properties.

- The same permissions apply to both the Windows and Web consoles.
- Administrators can grant or restrict rights to delegate specific actions.

## Summary

- **Desktop Console**: Installed automatically on the UserLock server. No longer available on other machines.
- **Web Console**: Installed on IIS, enables remote access through a browser.
- **Identical functionality**: Both consoles provide the same tools for configuration, monitoring, MFA assistance, and reporting.
- **Permissions**: Unified permission model managed at the server level.

👉 Together, the two consoles offer **secure**, **flexible **administration options that adapt to both local and remote needs.