Can I use the desktop app on a school computer?
Often yes. On Windows it installs just for your account with no admin password. Some schools block it, and the browser always works.
Often, yes. On Windows the app installs just for your own Windows account and doesn't ask for an administrator password. On a Mac, you drag it into Applications.
Some school computers are set up to block apps like this. If the installer won't run or the app won't open, use the planner in your web browser instead: it's the same account and always up to date.
If your school installed it for you
A copy your school's IT team installed is updated by them, not by itself. On Windows, when a newer version is out, the app says Your school keeps this app up to date. On a Mac it may say This copy of the app cannot be updated. Use the planner in your browser in the meantime.
Tip
If your IT team would like the app to keep itself up to date, send them Deploy the desktop app on school computers. It shows how to install it for each teacher so it updates by itself.
Good to know
On a shared computer, untick Keep me signed in on this device when you sign in, and sign out from your Profile when you're done. People who use the computer with their own Windows account won't see your copy of the app.
Updated September 27, 2026
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- Install the desktop app on WindowsOpen the installer, get past the Windows warning with More info and Run anyway, and the app installs for your account with no admin password.
- The desktop app won't updateMost update problems come from where the app is installed. Here's what each update message means and how to get the newest version.
- Deploy the desktop app on school computers (for IT)For a school's IT team: install the Windows app for each user so it keeps itself up to date, or install it for the whole computer and update it yourselves.
- Desktop app or browser: which should I use?Both open the same account and planners. The browser needs no install; the desktop app has its own window and works without internet.
- Sign outSelect Sign out at the bottom of your Profile. On a shared computer, also untick Keep me signed in on this device when you sign in.