Overview
This article outlines University Technology Services’ (UTS) guidelines for supporting the macOS operating system (OS) on university-managed Apple devices.
The purpose of this policy is 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.
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 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- Review: UTS monitors the macOS mobile device management (MDM) system for OU computers running outdated macOS versions.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
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Q: How do I know which macOS version I'm running?
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Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner.
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Select About This Mac.
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Your current version will be listed under the macOS name.
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Q: What if my device can't be upgraded to a supported OS?
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Q: Will I lose any data by upgrading?
Who is Eligible?
Additional Support
- OU Technology Center
- 44 Oakland Center
- Rochester, MI 48309-4479
- (248) 370-4357
- Office Hours: M-F 8:00am - 5:00pm