OS Updates (macOS & Windows)

OIT encourages all clients make sure the computer they are using for Williams related work, both OIT issued and personal, are running up to date operating systems. Click the appropriate section below for direction on how to check for updates on your device.

We do recommend having a recent backup before running your OS updates. OIT issued Windows computer should be set up to back up to a secure server in Jesup using the Atempo Live Navigator software. OIT issued macOS computers are set up with a time machine backup drive see: https://oit.williams.edu/help-guides/apps-software/macos-time-machine-backups/.

  • To check witch version of macOS you computer is running click the Apple logo in the top left and choose 'About this Mac'. If You are not running the latest macOS, currently macOS 11.x Big Sur, you need to upgrade.

    Upgrading from 10.15 or older:

    Frist Launch the Self Service.app from your applications folder. Under the fixes category you will see a Big Sur readiness check. Running that will check your computer and get it ready for the Big Sur update. Once that has finished and the computer is rebooted the Big Sur updated should be available.

    Go to Software Update in System Preferences to find the latest macOS available for your device. Click Upgrade Now and follow the onscreen instructions.

    If you’re running any release from macOS 10.13 to 10.9, you can upgrade the macOS from the App Store located in your Applications folder. You can search the App Store for macOS Big Sur if it is not immediately availiable.

    Upgrading from 11.x:

    Go to Software Update in System Preferences to find any needed system updates.

  • Upgrading from macOS Catalina 10.15 or Mojave 10.14:

    Go to Software Update in System Preferences to find the latest macOS available for your device. Click Upgrade Now and follow the onscreen instructions.

    Upgrading from an older version of macOS:

    If you’re running any release from macOS 10.13 to 10.9, you can upgrade the macOS from the App Store located in your applications folder.

    More info here:

    https://www.apple.com/macos/how-to-upgrade/

    https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT211683

If you have any questions please contact Client Services for assistance at [email protected] or x4090.