The Brief: Cisco has provided a seven-step process for enabling local settings on supported Cisco Desk Series devices, giving users additional control over device-level customization.
The process requires generating a Webex activation code, recording the device IP address, performing a factory reset, accessing the local web interface, creating local administrator credentials, registering the device through that interface, and completing setup on the Desk device.
Once local access is retained, users can customize wallpapers, wake settings, virtual backgrounds, web apps, web widgets, UI extensions, shortcuts, and macros. Depending on the device, RoomOS version, and organizational policies, users may also access environmental information such as noise, temperature, and humidity.
The process requires a laptop on the same network and takes about 15 minutes.
Learn full details of the announcement about Cisco Desk Series personalization at blog.webex.com.
Analyst Perspective: Cisco is giving Desk Series users a more direct way to make a managed collaboration endpoint fit their working habits. The value comes from combining established device capabilities with controls that can be configured locally.
That combination is important for organizations deploying dedicated deskside collaboration hardware. A device can remain registered to Webex while supporting additional user-level customization, including visual settings, web-based functions, interface additions, and automation. This provides more flexibility without changing the device's underlying role as a collaboration endpoint.
The range of supported options also gives customers room to tailor devices to different workspace needs. Someone may want a personalized visual environment, while another user may benefit more from a custom action button, web widget, or automated workflow. Environmental information adds another dimension by giving users access to device-collected workspace measurements where supported.
The personalization process begins before the Cisco Desk device is registered.
Users first sign in to settings.webex.com, open Settings > Devices, add the device, and generate an activation code. If the device is already listed, it must be removed before a fresh code can be generated. The device's IP address is then found under Settings > About this device > IP Address and recorded for later use.
The device is subsequently factory-reset and connected to Wi-Fi or a wired network. Setup must pause before the activation code is entered. On a laptop connected to the same network, the user enters the Desk device's IP address into a browser to reach its local web interface. A self-signed certificate may produce a browser warning during this step.
The local web interface is used to establish administrator access. Users initially sign in with the username admin and leave the password field blank, then follow the prompt to create a local administrator password. On devices that direct users to Users > Create user, they create an account, assign the admin role, and set a strong passphrase.
Registration also takes place through the local web interface. From Home, users select Register to Webex and enter the activation code created earlier. Before completing registration, they must clear Disable local users and integrations. Leaving that option enabled would remove the local access needed for the customization process.
The local administrator credentials should be stored securely in an approved password manager because they provide access to device settings, customizations, and integrations.
After registration, users return to the Desk device and finish the remaining setup, including selecting the appropriate time zone. The activation code should not be entered again because registration has already been completed through the local interface. Once the Webex configuration loads, users can return to the browser-based interface and sign in with the local administrator credentials to confirm that access remains active.
With local settings available, supported Desk Series devices can offer several customization options. Users can change wallpapers, configure wake settings, select virtual backgrounds, add web apps or widgets, and create UI extensions such as lighting controls or digital action buttons. Macros can automate selected functions, while environmental statistics can provide information about noise, temperature, and humidity.
Available controls vary according to hardware, RoomOS version, and organizational policy, so not every Desk Series device will provide the same set of options.
Cisco's Desk Series already serves organizations seeking dedicated endpoints with features such as security, management, one-button meeting access, and high-quality audio and video.
Local settings add another dimension by allowing supported devices to accommodate individual preferences without removing their connection to the Webex environment. This can be particularly useful for employees with dedicated workspaces, organizations deploying Desk Series devices across varied environments, and users who rely on custom controls or automated actions.
Having more control over the device also means users need to be careful about what they change.
Settings related to networking, calling, security, and integrations can affect how the device works, so it is helpful to keep a record of any changes. Saving the original settings before making adjustments can also make it easier to troubleshoot problems or restore the device later.
The local administrator password should receive the same level of care. Because it provides access to device settings, customizations, and integrations, it should be stored securely and only shared through approved methods.
The update gives Cisco Desk Series users more ways to tailor their devices to their individual workspaces. Features like custom wallpapers, web apps, UI extensions, and macros can make the device more useful for everyday tasks. This added flexibility may be especially valuable for people who use a Desk Series device as a dedicated workspace endpoint.
Going forward, the value of these local settings will depend on the features available for each device, the RoomOS version it runs, and the rules set by an organization’s IT team.
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