Updating your computer's operating system is not only important for security, but provides new features and keeps your computer running its best. Additional information about why keeping your computer up to date is important is provided here: Restart and Update Your Computer: FAQs

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 most recent 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.

Preparing to Update & Upgrade

Check Compatibility

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

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

Update & Upgrade Prompts from CNS OIT

Using EPM, CNS OIT manages the installation availability of security updates for your computer’s operating system and certain applications. and reminds you to update. You’ll still be required to initiate updates and upgrades.

Reminders from 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

Prompt to Upgrade

If your computer is compatible with a supported operating system but is currently running an unsupported OS, you’ll begin receiving a prompt to upgrade daily. As the deadline approaches, you’ll begin receiving the prompt more often.

Note
Deadline to upgrade is February 1st, 2025 This is CNS OIT’s deadline with the goal of balancing security with reducing inconvenience to you. The ISO could cause this timeline to accelerate if a high risk vulnerability is discovered or they begin quarantining computers more aggressively.

Upon clicking “Upgrade Now” in the prompt, you’ll be redirected to System Settings and receive temporary permissions to authorize the upgrade as an admin. When you’re start the upgrade, you’ll be able to enter your login username and password if prompted for an administrative username and password.

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Tip
Make sure your data is backed up Store the files you’re currently working on in SharePoint, OneDrive, or UT Box. Use CrashPlan to backup the rest of the data on your computer. CNS OIT recommends always using cloud storage instead of storing files on your computer’s Desktop or Documents folders.

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.