macOS Updates and Upgrades


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.



Minimum Requirements

At least 20 GB of of free disk space is recommended. If upgrading from an older version of macOS, 45 GB may be required.

macOS Sequoia 15

macOS Sonoma 14

macOS Ventura 13

https://support.apple.com/en-us/120280

Released: September 16, 2024Released: September 26, 2023Released: October 24, 2022

Mac Hardware Requirements

macOS Sequoia is compatible with these computers:

https://support.apple.com/en-us/120282

Mac Hardware Requirements

macOS Sonoma is compatible with these computers:

https://support.apple.com/en-us/105113

Mac Hardware Requirements

macOS Monterey is compatible with these computers:

https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213264




Upgrade Best Practices


Check compatibility

Check that your current software and hardware meet the requirements based on the above tables before upgrading.

Backup your files

  • Instructions for confirming or creating a backup through CrashPlan (the University's backup system) can be found here: Code42 CrashPlan UT Backup
  • Information on UTBox and using this service to store or keep a copy of your files can be found here: UTBox Wiki Pages

Get connected

It takes time to download and install macOS, so make sure that you have a reliable Internet connection. If upgrading a Mac notebook computer, plug it into the charger that came with the computer.



How To Update and Upgrade


To get the latest features and maintain the security, stability, compatibility, and performance of your Mac, it's important to keep your software up to date. Apple recommends that you always use the latest macOS that is compatible with your Mac.

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 Monterey or Big Sur.