macOS Support

Overview

This article outlines University Technology Services’ (UTS) guidelines for supporting the macOS operating system (OS) on university-managed Apple devices.

The purpose of these guidelines are to ensure macOS devices used by faculty, staff, and students remain secure, compatible with university systems, and eligible for timely support. Apple releases new versions of macOS annually and typically supports the three most recent major versions with security updates. In alignment with Apple’s lifecycle, UTS will only support devices running one of the currently supported macOS versions.

UTS strongly recommends updating to the latest version of macOS that your device supports. Staying current helps ensure the highest level of security, compatibility, and performance.

Supported macOS Versions

UTS supports only supports macOS versions that are still supported by Apple, which is usually the three most recent major versions of macOS. This ensures that:

  • Devices continue receiving critical security patches
  • Users have access to the latest features and app compatibility
  • Systems remain eligible for support from both Apple and UTS

You can find the currently supported macOS versions by visiting the endoflife.date/macOS website.

Update Requirements and Timing

UTS-managed macOS devices are expected to stay within the supported range. Here's how we enforce and manage macOS updates:

  • Review: UTS monitors the macOS mobile device management (MDM) system for OU computers running outdated macOS versions.
  • Notification: Users may be notified if they have pending updates or non-compliant versions of macOS on their computer that need to be addressed.
  • Enforcement: Devices still running unsupported versions may experience limited access to UTS services including being blocked from campus networks.

If a computer is running the latest version of macOS that it supports, but that version is no longer supported by Apple and UTS, we recommend replacing the device. UTS is happy to provide a quote that includes an educational discount for a new Mac. See the “Related Services” section of this article for more information.

How to Update macOS

Please see the "Related Articles" section of this article to find instructions on how to update macOS.

FAQ or Troubleshooting

  • Q: How do I know which macOS version I'm running?

    1. Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner.

    2. Select About This Mac.

    3. Your current version will be listed under the macOS name.

  • Q: What if my device can't be upgraded to a supported OS?

    • If your device is too old to run a supported version of macOS, it is recommended that you replace the device as soon as possible. UTS is happy to provide a quote that includes an educational discount for a new Mac. See the “Related Services” section of this article for more information.

  • Q: Will I lose any data by upgrading?

    • Major updates preserve your data, but we strongly recommend backing up your files before proceeding.

Who is Eligible?

  • All faculty, staff, and students using university-managed Apple Mac devices.

Additional Support

  • OU Technology Center
  • 44 Oakland Center
  • Rochester, MI 48309-4479
  • (248) 370-4357
  • Office Hours: M-F 8:00am - 5:00pm
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Related Articles (1)

How to Update macOS
This article explains how to upgrade your Mac to the latest supported version of macOS to ensure compatibility, security, and continued support from Oakland University IT.