College Macs Should Be Upgraded to Catalina

10/29/20

Contributed by Karen Compton

College Mac users running an operating system below Mojave 10.14 need to upgrade to a newer macOS. This ensures that their system is secure, has current features, and is compatible with current software such as Office 365. You can check your operating system version by clicking the Apple menu and choosing About This Mac.

Apple generally provides security updates for the 3 most recent versions of macOS. With a new version of macOS expected to be announced soon, that means Apple will fully support Big Sur (11), Catalina (10.15), and Mojave (10.14). Any macOS of 10.13 or lower will need to be upgraded to Catalina (recommended) or Mojave.

You should perform a self-service upgrade at your earliest convenience to either Catalina or Mojave, keeping the following in mind:

During Fall 2020, there are unique variables that may impact your ability to upgrade, such as whether you have access to your normal campus Mac, and, if off campus, whether or not you have a robust enough Internet connection to support the large download of the installer. The upgrade recommendation is targeted at people who can reasonably do so in their particular circumstance.
While Catalina will be fine for many people, be aware that this version of macOS no longer supports 32-bit applications so please review this information before upgrading to Catalina.
When Big Sur is released we do not recommend upgrading to that right away until IT has verified that software and systems commonly used at IC are compatible with it.

Please contact the IT Service Desk as needed for assistance.

Information Technology Service Desk
ithaca.edu/itchat
servicedesk@ithaca.edu
607-274-1000
104 Job Hall

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