December 2, 2024
How to upgrade or update your Device
Detailed instructions on how to update your Mac computer can be found on Apple's support website:
Apple Support: Update macOS on Mac
Backup Your Data
Although not a requirement, it is recommended you backup your data prior to upgrading the Operating System. Your Mac's OS includes a built-in backup feature called Time Machine. More information can be found about Time Machine how to use it on Apple's support website here.
Update Your Software Applications
Whenever you update or upgrade your MacOS, it is recommended to check for updates for other software you use regularly. Apps such as Microsoft Office, Cisco VPN, and Citrix Workspace usually check for updates on their own, but other apps may require a manual update. The Intune Company Portal or PEAS Self Service application in your Applications folder have the current versions of these Enterprise software available for download. If your Mac is not yet enrolled, you can follow the steps found here to enroll it.
Supported versions of macOS
In accordance with Mass General Brigham policy, end users are expected to keep their Macs current with the latest OS version and application software updates available for their computer.
The below table lists the minimum Mac hardware that is compatible with a given version of macOS. You can find out the type of Mac and OS you are running by clicking on the Apple Menu ( ) in the top left of your screen and selecting About This Mac.
| macOS 12 Monterey | macOS 13 Ventura | macOS 14 Sonoma | macOS 15 Sequoia | |
| MacBook | Early 2016 | 2017 | - | - |
| MacBook Air | Early 2015 | 2018 | 2018 | 2022 |
| MacBook Pro | Early 2015 | 2017 | 2018 | 2018 |
| Mac Mini | Late 2014 | 2018 | 2018 | 2018 |
| Mac Studio | - | 2022 | 2022 | 2022 |
| iMac | Late 2015 | 2017 | 2019 | 2019 |
| iMac Pro | Late 2017 | Late 2017 | Late 2017 | 2017 |
| Mac Pro | Late 2013 | 2019 | 2019 | 2019 |
| Out of Support |
This version of macOS no longer receives updates and security patches from Apple. You must upgrade your OS to a supported version to remain compliant with MGB computing policies. If your Mac is unable to be upgraded to a supported version of macOS, you must replace it with a newer computer |
| Transitional |
This version of macOS is currently supported by Apple and MGB. However, it will fall out of support once Apple releases the next major OS release. Apple usually releases major upgrades to macOS in September/October |
| Supported |
This version of macOS is considered current and in support. "In support" means that Apple is still issuing security patches and is supported by MGB Digital. It is strongly recommended that you enable Automatic Software Updates to ensure that your Mac is always running the latest OS supported by your Mac's hardware |
Finding older Mac OS installers
If your Mac is compatible with a Supported OS but Software Update cannot find it:
- Open Safari (no other browser will work with these links)
- Go to https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT211683
- Choose a version of macOS that is compatible with your Mac, provided it is Supported (see table)