In this ControlUp Community Meetup, host Douglas Brown sits down with Jed Ayres, CEO of ControlUp, to discuss the growing complexity of IT, the evolution of Digital Employee Experience, and how AI is changing the way technology teams identify and resolve problems.
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Automation Related Training & Support Archives
Automation training and support-related archives from inside the ControlUp Community on Slack.
How to Deploy ControlUp Agent via GPO in VDI Environments with MSI Silent Install and PowerShell Automation
Deploying the ControlUp Agent for VDI environments via Group Policy Object (GPO) does not have a dedicated official knowledge-base article, as the installation approach aligns with generic MSI silent installs used in other deployment methods like SCCM or PDQ. The official ControlUp documentation regarding local machine connection and agent communication is the primary reference for deployment: https://support.controlup.com/docs/connect-to-your-machines-locally and https://support.controlup.com/docs/agent-outbound-communication.
For non-persistent VDI setups that use a gold master image, the recommended method is to install the ControlUp agent MSI directly on the master image with specific MSI properties: `MASTER_IMAGE=true`, along with the `AUTHKEY` and `RegistrationKey`. This avoids the need for repeated installations on cloned machines via GPO. For persistent, domain-joined virtual machines, using a GPO Computer Startup Script to run an msiexec command is preferred over GPO Software Installation because it allows passing required MSI properties. An example command line looks like this:
`msiexec /i \\share\ControlUpAgent-xxxx.msi /qn AUTHKEY="" RegistrationKey="" MASTER_IMAGE=true`
The authentication keys are retrieved from the Real-Time Console under Settings → Agent. The Registration Key is mandatory starting from version 9.0. Machines must be manually added to the organization tree unless the agent version is 9.0.5 or higher, which supports self-registration.
When GPO deployment is not optimal, if remote RPC or WMI connectivity is available, deploying the agent remotely via the ControlUp console or Monitor is simpler. For cloud-managed endpoints, Microsoft Intune is the officially documented deployment method.
A practical example was shared demonstrating a PowerShell script to deploy the ControlUp Agent MSI for VDI within a Nerdio scripted action context. The script copies the MSI from a UNC file share to a local temporary path, validates that the MSI file is correctly copied (including a check on the MSI magic bytes), and then executes the msiexec command with silent installation flags, the authentication keys, and logging enabled. It captures and reports installation exit codes and prompts when a reboot is required. The script also includes a post-installation check to list ControlUp-related services to confirm the agent installed and started as expected.
This approach encapsulates the best practice for deploying ControlUp agents in VDI environments using GPO, balancing MSI property requirements, version-specific authentication mechanisms, and practical scripting for automation. For detailed agent deployment contexts and command-line references, the ControlUp official documentation remains the authoritative source: https://support.controlup.com/docs/connect-to-your-machines-locally and https://support.controlup.com/docs/agent-outbound-communication.
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How to Auto Log Off Idle Users in Azure Virtual Desktop Using ControlUp Triggers and Scripts
Several ControlUp community members discussed how to configure a trigger to automatically log off idle users from Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) hosts using the ControlUp Agent for Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI). One common solution is to leverage existing trigger packs within ControlUp, which include triggers designed to log off a user session after a specified period of inactivity. These triggers can be customized based on time thresholds that fit the organization’s session management policies.
An example script and detailed guidance were shared from ControlUp’s official script library, which provides automation for disconnecting or logging off idle sessions. This script can be adapted and deployed within ControlUp's automation policies to monitor session activity and log off users automatically when idle thresholds are met. The relevant resource is available at https://www.controlup.com/script-library-posts/disconnect-or-log-off-idle-sessions/.
Additional insights were shared from a ControlUp blog post that focuses on session resource optimization through automation. This post outlines best practices and practical examples of using ControlUp automation to manage session states efficiently, including auto-logout for idle sessions. The blog can be found here: https://www.controlup.com/blog/controlup-automation-session-resource-optimization/.
While native solutions like DaaS IQ might offer built-in functionality for auto-logging off idle users, many organizations have adopted ControlUp triggers as a practical workaround until formal approval or integration of native options is completed. The combination of ControlUp’s flexible triggers and scripting capabilities allows administrators to enforce session timeout policies effectively within AVD environments, optimizing resource utilization and enhancing security.
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How to Use the New Markdown Export Feature in ControlUp Documentation for Large Language Model Integration
ControlUp's documentation site has introduced a new feature that allows users to copy any documentation page in markdown format. This enhancement is particularly useful for users who want to upload ControlUp content directly into large language models (LLMs), facilitating better and more precise script crafting or automation related to ControlUp products. For example, users can now easily convert the "Scripting Guide" page into markdown and input it into their LLM environment, ensuring that the model has detailed, structured data to work from.
This markdown export capability streamlines the process of creating LLM-friendly documentation inputs, addressing a common challenge when working with extensive or complex technical materials. By providing content in markdown, the documentation is preserved in a clean, readable, and semantically rich format that LLMs can parse more effectively than raw HTML or PDF files.
While it is not explicitly confirmed whether this feature was developed directly by the ControlUp team or if it stems from an update to the documentation platform itself, it represents a valuable improvement for the community. It supports advanced use cases such as automated script generation, query assistance, and customized training data preparation for ControlUp’s digital employee experience (DEX) and IT performance monitoring tools. The feature has been recognized positively by users for simplifying integration of official ControlUp documentation into AI-driven workflows.
For more details on ControlUp’s scripting options and how to utilize documentation effectively, users are encouraged to visit the official documentation site at https://docs.controlup.com, where this new markdown export option is available.
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How to Calculate Time Saved from Automation Runs in ControlUp Dashboards Using Calculated Metrics
A user sought to create insights on time saved through automations by modifying the existing scripting and automation dashboard in ControlUp. Their goal was to add a calculated column that multiplies the number of successful script runs by a fixed value (such as 5 or 10) to estimate the total minutes saved. The user attempted to apply a mathematical transformation—specifically multiplying the "success-runs" metric by 10—via the dashboard's JSON transformation editor. However, they encountered difficulties as the table widget was built using the advanced JSON builder, which does not support switching to the basic editor mode where simple calculated columns can be added or modified directly.
ControlUp's community and support experts explained that the particular widget in question is created through the advanced JSON editor and does not support adding custom calculated columns directly on individual tables. The system currently does not allow adding a calculated column that multiplies existing columns in the advanced editor since it applies transformations to each column rather than enabling column-to-column calculations.
A recommended workaround is to use the associated "stat" widget found elsewhere on the same dashboard. This widget provides basic aggregated metrics and allows users to add simple calculations, such as multiplying the total number of successful script runs by a fixed number to calculate total time saved. By performing the multiplication in the stat widget rather than modifying the complex JSON table, users can achieve their insight goal effectively.
This limitation highlights that for advanced dashboards created via JSON editing in ControlUp, calculated columns that depend on arithmetic of existing columns must be created through simpler widgets or by recalculating the data outside the table visualization. Users aiming to customize time-saving metrics based on script run counts should consider leveraging stat widgets or other summary-level visualizations that support straightforward calculated metrics. For further guidance, ControlUp's official documentation on the dashboard widgets and calculations can provide additional instructions: https://docs.controlup.com/display/DOCS/Dashboards and https://docs.controlup.com/display/DOCS/Data+Transforms.
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ControlUp Community Meetup 15: How to: Connecting MCP AI to your Real-Time Data
Learn how to connect AI to live enterprise data using the ControlUp MCP Server. In this session, Chris Twiest explains the fundamentals of Model Context Protocol (MCP), including LLMs, prompts, system prompts, tool calling, and retrieval, before demonstrating how to connect Claude Desktop to ControlUp. Watch a live walkthrough of configuring the MCP Server, querying real-time endpoint data, visualizing application crashes, comparing results against historical baselines, and using system prompts to dramatically improve AI accuracy. The session also explores practical use cases, including upgrade planning, combining multiple MCP servers, building custom AI interfaces, and the future of autonomous endpoint management.
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Automating VDI Registration in ControlUp Console
Automating the addition of Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) machines to the ControlUp console upon agent installation can streamline management and monitoring processes. While ControlUp for Desktops offers a command-line installation method that automatically registers machines, a similar approach for VDIs requires specific configuration.
To achieve automated registration of VDIs, you can utilize the Install-CUAgent PowerShell cmdlet, which is part of the ControlUp Automation module. This cmdlet allows for the download and installation of the ControlUp Agent on local machines, including VDIs. By providing the necessary authentication key during installation, the agent registers the machine with your ControlUp environment. For non-domain-joined machines, an API authentication token is required. ([support.controlup.com](https://support.controlup.com/docs/install-cuagent-install-an-agent?utm_source=openai))
For non-persistent VDIs, such as those created from a master image, it's essential to configure the agent to handle these scenarios appropriately. By setting the agent as a master image, it ensures that new VDIs created from this image will automatically register with the ControlUp console, preventing duplicate entries and maintaining an accurate device inventory. ([support.controlup.com](https://support.controlup.com/v1/docs/agent-outbound-communication?utm_source=openai))
Additionally, enabling folder synchronization with your VDI infrastructure can further streamline management. This feature ensures that VDIs are correctly registered and prevents stale machines from cluttering the interface. By integrating with your VDI environment, ControlUp can automatically detect and manage VDIs, enhancing the efficiency of your monitoring and management processes. ([support.controlup.com](https://support.controlup.com/docs/connecting-to-your-vdi-infrastructure?utm_source=openai))
By implementing these methods, you can automate the addition of VDIs to the ControlUp console, ensuring accurate device registration and efficient management of your virtual desktop environment.
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How to Diagnose Microsoft Teams SlimCore Optimization in Citrix and Other VDI Environments Using PowerShell Scripts
This discussion highlights two PowerShell scripts developed to aid tracking and diagnosing Microsoft Teams SlimCore Optimization specifically within Citrix environments, with potential applicability to Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD), Windows 365 (W365), and VMware Horizon sessions. SlimCore is an optimized media stack used in virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) scenarios to enhance Teams call performance by offloading audio and video processing to the client side.
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Automation Issue Resolved by YoDeck Support in “Application” Framework
After investigating an issue with automation, it was discovered that the issue was resolved by the YoDeck Support team within the "application" Framework. A script was provided to assist with a button click code in the automation process. A screenshot was requested for comparison after the auto-fill process is completed. A script was also provided for inputting credentials into the fields. The button is clicked after the input. The issue was resolved by YoDeck Support within the "application" Framework.
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Automating Notifications for Users with Low WiFi Signal in ControlUp
A discussion was held about using workflows to automate notifications for a high volume of users experiencing low WiFi signal on corporate WiFi. Ideas were shared about centralizing events and using AI features in ControlUp to count the number of affected devices and trigger an email or teams message. The suggested solution involved querying the _devices and device_status to gather relevant data.
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