• Verified

    • Updating and Upgrading macOS

    Owned by Margie Athol
    Last updated: Dec 13, 2024Version comment
    4 min read

    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 three most recent operating systems released.

    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:

    If your computer’s hardware isn’t able to run a supported version of macOS, contact CNS OIT for assistance in getting a new computer.

    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:

    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 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 availability of security updates for your computer’s operating system 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.

    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.

    Pop up CNS Office of Information Technology notification window featuring the UT shield. Beneath computer information and security policy statement are three buttons for Upgrade Now, Later, and Learn More.

    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.

     

     

    Confluence Documentation | Web Privacy Policy | Web Accessibility