Beta Testing Procedure for UserLock

Learn how to safely test a UserLock beta version and provide effective feedback to the IS Decisions team.

Published April 30, 2024

Overview

UserLock beta versions allow administrators to validate new features, improvements, and fixes before public release.

Following the steps below ensures a smooth beta experience and meaningful feedback for improving the final version.

Prerequisites

Before starting, make sure that:

  • You have a test environment similar to your production setup to avoid service disruption.

  • The test machine meets the UserLock system requirements (see Requirements).

  • If you install in production (not recommended):

    • Ensure that protected zones do not overlap with any existing UserLock installation.

    • Inform another team member that the beta version is deployed on the network and share this guide.

    • Plan installation during support hours to receive assistance if needed.

About beta versions

Beta builds behave like standard versions when a valid license key is registered.

Otherwise:

  • No license key is required.

  • Expiration date: Beta versions stop working after a predefined date.

    • If the UserLock service restarts after expiration, startup will be cancelled.

    • If the service remains running, protection and restrictions will no longer apply.

Download and install the beta version

  1. Download the latest UserLock beta from the download page.

  2. Follow the standard setup process described in Quick start with UserLock.

  3. During installation, select Primary Server in the Configuration Wizard.

  4. Do not install the UserLock Desktop Agent on the beta server itself.
    This avoids being locked out in case of incorrect access policy configuration or test errors.

Testing Features

We recommend performing your tests during IS Decisions support hours so our team can assist if needed.

  1. Test the new features or fixes listed in the beta release notes.

  2. Verify the user experience: Check that the interface is intuitive and stable.

  3. Validate integrations: Ensure compatibility with your environment (VPN, IIS, etc.).

  4. Monitor system performance and confirm that UserLock behaves as expected.

Reporting issues

If you encounter any issue:

  1. Enable verbose logging (see how to enable verbose mode on agent logs) to capture detailed information.

  2. Include in your report:

    • Steps to reproduce the issue

    • Screenshots or logs

    • Expected vs. actual behavior

Contact IS Decisions support:

Support is available Monday–Friday, 9:00–12:30 and 14:00–18:00 (CET / UTC+1).

Providing feedback

After completing your tests:

  • Report your findings: successes, issues, and anomalies.

  • Suggest improvements or new features.

  • Comment on usability: clarity, performance, and ease of use.

Your input directly helps improve the final version of UserLock.

Finalizing the beta test

Once the public release is available:

  1. Upgrade your test or production environment to the final version.
    → See Upgrade procedure.

  2. Remove the beta version if it is no longer needed.

  3. Share your final observations with the IS Decisions team.