Required macOS updates
A reminder prompt will display on your device shortly after a required macOS update becomes available. Prior to the due date, you are free to defer updating to a more convenient time. The due date is represented on the prompt as “Days Remaining To Update.” Once the due date is reached, the reminder prompt will display and compel you to update immediately in order to keep your Mac compliant for use with University resources.
Optional macOS updates
Depending on your device’s hardware specs and which version of macOS you are currently running, you may be able to install optional macOS updates via the Software Update menu in System Preferences.
Normally, MiWorkspace updates do not require administrator privileges, however, this is a new Apple requirement built into the operating system. If you do not have administrator privileges on your MiWorkspace device (or receive an error when you attempt to upgrade), please call the ITS Service Center.
Prior to installing the new OS
- Install all pending software updates available in the Managed Software Center.
- Plug in your computer to a power source.
- Connect your computer to an internet network (wired connection recommended).
- Make sure your hard drive has 50GB of free space available. To view the available free space on your computer, click the Apple menu (top-left) and select About this Mac. Then, click the Storage tab in the window that displays.
- Set aside at least an hour for the installation to run. Your computer will be unavailable while you upgrade to the new operating system.
Install Required macOS Updates
- Click Update Device on the reminder prompt to open the Software Update menu in System Preferences (or System Settings, depending on your OS version).
- Click Update Now, Restart Now, or Upgrade Now to launch the update (the button may differ depending on the type of update).
Note: Depending on which macOS version you are currently running, you may see a “More Info” link in System Preferences. If desired, click More Info to upgrade to the newest macOS version available for your device.
- Follow any on-screen instructions to complete the update. View more information about what may happen next depending on which macOS version you are updating to.
Install Optional macOS Updates
- Select System Preferences (or System Settings, depending on your OS version) from the Apple menu.
- Click Software Update. The system will check for available updates. If an update is available, continue with the next step.
- Click Update Now, Restart Now, or Upgrade Now to launch the update (the button may differ depending on the type of update).
Note: Depending on which macOS version you are currently running, you may see a “More Info” link in System Preferences. If desired, click More Info to upgrade to the newest macOS version available for your device.
- Follow any on-screen instructions to complete the update. View more information about what may happen next depending on which macOS version you are updating to.
What happens next
- You may be prompted for an administrator account.
- If you have administrator privileges on your computer, log in with your uniqname and U-M (Level-1) password. If you do not have administrator privileges on your MiWorkspace computer, please call the ITS Service Center for assistance.
- Your computer will restart after several minutes. Enter your password, if prompted, to continue the installation.
After the OS is installed
- Your computer will reboot. Log in normally when prompted.
- Managed Software Center may launch shortly after you log in and may run for an extended time to upgrade applications to versions compatible with the new macOS. It is important you install all updates (restart may be required).
- You may see a number of prompts to approve application notifications on your Mac after logging in.
- You may have a Relocated Items shortcut on your desktop.
- The Block M menu bar icon for the MiWorkspace Helper Tool may appear either solid black or white to accommodate the new color theme.