| Cfm alert | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
| Expand | ||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ||||||||||||||
|
Information Security Office Compliance
https://security.utexas.edu/content/min-security-standards | Systems > Minimum Standards > 4.5. System Hardening > 4.5.2
"Operating system and application services security patches are installed expediently (e.g., 30-days) and in a manner consistent with change management procedures. Products that no longer receive security updates from the vendor (e.g., unsupported) are not authorized."
Apple does not provide security updates for anything older than the last three operating systems released. At this time, you must be running at least macOS Catalina 10.15.7 to be in compliance with the Information Security Office's minimum security standards.
| Note |
|---|
Computers running an unsupported version of macOS will be quarantined by the Information Security Office. |
Preparing to Update & Upgrade
Check Compatibility
Software
Make sure your software (especially licensed and specialty software) is compatible with the version of macOS you’re upgrading to. The vendor’s support website will typically have information about OS compatibility. Or, contact CNS OIT for assistance.
For licensed software, make sure you have a copy of the license key or licensing information and access to an installer.
Hardware
Follow the links below for Mac computers that are compatible with macOS:
Backup Your Files
At least 15 GB of of free disk space is required. To upgrade from an older version of macOS, 45 GB may be required.
Use CrashPlan to backup your files: Code42 CrashPlan UT Backup
We recommend always using cloud storage. UT offers multiple options including:
OneDrive and SharePoint: Microsoft 365 Storage
UT Box: https://cloud.wikis.utexas.edu/wiki/spaces/utbox/overview
Get Connected
It takes time to download and install macOS, so make sure that you have a reliable Internet connection.
Plug Mac notebook computers into power using the charger that came with your computer.
How to Update & Upgrade
| Info |
|---|
Update vs. Upgrade, what’s the difference? Updates are minor changes to the current major OS version to improve security, fix bugs, and enhance features. They’re smaller making them quicker to install and are also more frequent. For example, updating from macOS 14.7.1 to macOS 14.7.2. It’s like getting a tune-up for your car. Upgrades are to go from one major OS version to another, with significant changes that typically include new features, changes to the interface, and major performance enhancements. They take longer because the current version of the OS is being replaced with the new one. For example. upgrade from macOS Sonoma 14 to macOS Sequoia 15. It’s like trading in your car for the new model. |
Update & Upgrade Prompts from CNS OIT
Using EPM, CNS OIT manages the installation of security updates for your computer’s operating system and certain applications.
Nudge
When new updates are available for macOS you’ll receive a notification in the form of a window in the center of your screen from an app called Nudge. You have 6 days to defer the notification and install the updates before the notification becomes persistent and you are forced to update without any further options for deferral.
To see what this looks like, refer to: Jamf OS Patching: UT Macintosh Security Updates and Reboot Policy
Upgrade Prompt
If your computer is compatible with a supported operating system but is currently running an unsupported OS, you’ll begin receiving a prompt daily to upgrade.
Update & Upgrade through System Settings
How to update the software on your Mac: Use Software Update to find and install updates for macOS, built-in apps like Safari, and apps downloaded from the App Store.
How to upgrade to macOS Sequoia: Learn how to download and install macOS Sequoia, the latest version of the Mac operating system.
How to get old versions of macOS: If your Mac isn't compatible with the latest macOS, you might still be able to upgrade to an earlier macOS, such as macOS Sonoma or Ventura.
| Panel | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ||||||||
Need assistance or have questions? For assistance with your computer, submit a help request form, send an email to help@cns.utexas.edu, or call 512-232-1077. For questions about endpoint management, submit an Endpoint Management Questions request to create a ticket with our CNS OIT EPM team. |