Can/should I update my device?
- It is considered best practice for security reasons to update all software to the newest version when it is released.
- Each person can decide when to update when new software is released; however NIST will sometimes force an update on users.
- School-provided Windows devices are set to auto-update.
- You should attempt to be on the latest version for security reasons. With the rapid, central deployment of systems, gone are the days of worrying about updates breaking your computer. See our data protection guide for more information.
How do I update?
- On a Mac computer, you can find updates under the Apple menu > About this Mac then Software Update… button.
- If a software prompts you to update itself, you can click on accept.
- On an iPad, you can find operating system updates in Settings app > General > Software Update
- On an iPad, to update Apps go to App Store app and click on Updates button. (You will see a red number on the app store icon to indicate when you have updates.)
- On a Windows machine, merely accept the suggested updates.
Warning Before Upgrading
- Back up any data which is only on your device.
- Be sure to plug in your device.
- Do not shut down the machine during process.
- Be sure to update when you do not need the device for a few hours.
Should I update my Operating System now?
- An upgraded operating system (OS) will be released occasionally by Apple.
- We do not recommend you to upgrade immediately as first versions can have bugs.
- We generally ask that you wait until a new OS gets to xx.xx.2 or xx.xx.3 before updating. To help guide you regarding when to upgrade:
10.XX.0 never upgrade10.XX.1 a bit risky, but you are obviously a daredevil10.XX.2 safe to update10.XX.3 (or higher) you should be on most current version always
- If you really must be among the first to upgrade, here is an article about how to upgrade your Mac computer. Here is an article about updating your iPad.
- For Windows, the school will push updates when they are safe to install.
Note: In order to update, you will need to be signed in to the App Store where the apps were purchased/downloaded originally.
Special Note about Mac OS 10.15 Catalina
- Catalina is a major upgrade that can make some of your older applications no longer function on your computer.
- Watch this video to see how to check which apps.
- If there are apps in the list that are not 64-bit compatible that you still need, please check to see if there are newer versions that you will be able to use after you upgrade.
- If in doubt, contact Help Desk as units.