macOS Update Instructions

macOS Update Instructions
Updated 9/29/2021 - “Big Sur”

Follow these instructions to install the latest version of macOS. Before you begin, please review the entire document to fully understand the steps. If you are unclear about any of the following steps, please open a helpdesk ticket.

1. Make sure any files you need are saved to Google Drive. Note the following:
   • • All files stored on your desktop are not being saved to Google Drive. If the update fails and requires additional assistance from TSS you could potentially lose any files stored on your Desktop (or any other file location outside of Google Drive)
     • Make sure Google Drive is installed and running on your Macbook. If you cannot run the Google Drive application, upload files directly to Google Drive on the web.
2. Make sure you have a reliable internet connection and are connected to a dedicated power source.
   • • We recommend you perform all updates at home connected to your home wireless network. Updates can take anywhere from 15 minutes to 2+ hours.
     • If the installation is interrupted, you risk data loss and may require additional assistance from TSS.
3. Determine which version of macOS you are currently running by clicking on the Apple icon from the toolbar and clicking “About This Mac”
4. If you are running version 11.0 - 11.5, click the “Software Update…” button and install all available updates. When the updates are completed, verify that you are running the latest version of macOS*
   *Please note that at the time this document was published the latest version of macOS is 11.6. There may be a newer version of macOS available at the time you perform these steps
5. If you are running version 10.15 or older:
   • • When updating macOS from older versions, we recommend that you plan for your device to be unavailable for at least 2 hours.
     • Open your Applications folder and run “Install macOS Big Sur”
     • Follow the on-screen instructions and accept all defaults
     • Your computer will automatically reboot during the installation process. When the installation is complete, again verify that you are running the latest version of macOS.

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Additional Information

• • There are a number of applications that are no longer able to run on the latest version of macOS. Below is a list of common applications we know of, that are no longer compatible with the latest version of macOS.
    • Microsoft Office (versions older than 2019) - You will need to install the latest version of Microsoft Office from Self Service
    • Drive File Stream - Download and install the latest version of Drive for desktop from Google.
    • The Print Shop - This application is not supported, and no longer compatible with the latest version of macOS. If you haven’t done so already, we encourage you to explore web-based alternatives such as Adobe Spark*, Canva, or Crello.
      *Log in to Adobe Spark with your district account to unlock premium features
    • Adobe Creative Suite - Install the Adobe Creative Cloud App from Self Service.

If you have any questions or run into any issues updating your Macbook, please open a helpdesk ticket.

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