Desktop Client FAQ

This section answers some of the questions frequently asked about Desktop Client.

In this topic:

How does the Internet Explorer retirement impact Desktop Client?

Following Microsoft’s announcement, the support for Desktop Client on Internet Explorer was ended starting from June 15, 2022. Our recommended replacement is ALM Client Launcher — a Windows application that runs Desktop Client without dependency on Internet Explorer. It supports full functionality of Desktop Client and greatly reduces administration overhead.

To use ALM Client Launcher, you need 12.60 or later. Since 12.60 ended committed support on August 31, 2022, we recommend updating your server to the latest version, which avoids the Internet Explorer dependency and gives you the latest updates and benefits from the full range of new features and functionalities.

Visit Explore your ALM options for information and resources on upgrade.

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What is ALM Client Launcher and what benefits does it bring?

ALM Client Launcher is a Microsoft Windows application to run Desktop Client without dependency on IE browser and Active X technology.

It can be deployed via Windows Installer and greatly reduce administration overhead. The installer makes it easy for IT organizations to distribute ALM Client Launcher to all end-user environments. You can also install ALM Client Launcher from command line, enabling automatic deployment using scripts. Alternatively, your organization may let each individual user install it for himself without the need of administrator privilege.

ALM Client Launcher runs Desktop Client in place of Internet Explorer, preserving all functionality including Lab Management and Site Administration. Therefore it is the recommended choice for minimizing the impact of Internet Explorer retirement on your business.

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Where can I download ALM Client Launcher?

You can download it from AppDelivery Marketplace. Refer to the product compatibility information on the marketplace page to learn the supported versions of the server.

If you are using 15.5 or later, you can download ALM Client Launcher directly from your server via the qcbin page (for example https://server.domain/qcbin/). Click the Desktop Client link or the rocket icon next to it and it guides you where to download.

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What happens to the legacy options that run Desktop Client?

Different client options as listed in the table below. They are essentially different ways to run the same Desktop Client. These options are still supported if the technology they rely on is still supported by the vendor. However, we recommend using ALM Client Launcher which offers more convenience in terms of deployment and upgrade.

Client Option Client Runs On Installation Permission
Desktop Client

  • Microsoft Edge (Internet Explorer mode)

  • Microsoft Internet Explorer (end of support starting June 15, 2022)

 Windows administrator
ALM Explorer Microsoft Windows Windows administrator
ALM Client for Microsoft App-V Microsoft Windows Windows user

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How do I use Desktop Client with Microsoft Edge?

Run Desktop Client in Microsoft Edge Internet Explorer (IE) mode.

Refer to Microsoft Getting Started Guide on Microsoft Edge + Internet Explorer mode.

Alternatively, see Access Desktop Client from Edge IE mode.

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How long will Desktop Client for Microsoft Edge IE mode be supported?

According to Microsoft, Internet Explorer mode in Microsoft Edge enables backward compatibility and will be supported through at least 2029. As long as IE mode in Edge is supported, running Desktop Client in this mode is supported.

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How to deploy Desktop Client with Microsoft Application Virtualization (MS App-V)?

Here is the general process:

  1. Create a .msi installation file for Desktop Client files using the ALM Client MSI Generator.

  2. Package the .msi file and register it in the Microsoft App-V server.

  3. On an App-V client, download the App-V package and launch the client.

For more detailed instructions, see Creating ALM App-V Packages using App-V Sequencer.

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