Apple typically supports their current version, and the previous two versions, of their operating systems with new security updates. Apple historically releases a new version each year. This means that a Macintosh operating system has a life cycle of about 3 years. Over the life cycle of your Whitman Macintosh computer, you will need the operating system upgraded at least once.
There are two ways to upgrade an operating system for a Whitman Mac:
- If you’re comfortable trying it out yourself, go to the Self Service app in your application folder and run the upgrade. (See the Step-by-step guide below)
- Contact WCTS via the Help Desk (x4976) and make an appointment for us to upgrade your Mac for you. An in-house upgrade typically has a computer out of use for up to 2 days – this process performs a complete backup and restore of your data after provisioning with the latest operating system.
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When your computer operating system nears end of support, we will notify you through an informational window titled "Mac OS is in need of upgrade!" This is only information, and will not start the upgrade.
The notice will reappear monthly as a reminder if you have not upgraded.
- Update older 32-bit apps to 64-bit versions, if needed. (see the Info section below for more on this.)
- Make sure you have saved your work and closed all open applications; the upgrade will require a restart.
- Open Self Service, which can be found in your Mac's Applications folder.
- Click Operating Systems from the category list.
- Select which version to upgrade to and click the Upgrade button. (see the Info section on "risks" below before selecting a version.)
- When the upgrade has finished the computer will reboot.
- You will not be able to work on your computer during the upgrade period, which may last up to 30 minutes. (Especially if you are upgrading from a much older version.)
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