Macs at TU

Info for managing, updating and upgrading TU-owned Macs. 

Need to use a Mac?

Where to find a Mac on campus

Check with your college or department office for availability. There are also Macs for student, faculty and staff use in Cook Library. Contact the OTS Tech Support Desk for more info and locations.

Management  

TU-owned computers have components installed and managed by OTS to ensure stability, security and ease of remote support. Jamf Self Service is used to distribute software to university Macs, providing standard university application packages for faculty and staff to install on-demand. Using Jamf allows for: 

  • Secure and standard configurations: Installation and deployments that are tested to work with the TU network, products and services. 
  • Easy updates: auto-updates to Mac OS plus software distribution for on-demand installation using self-service. 

Individual Macs: See requirements and how to install software packages on a TU mac. Classroom and lab Macs questions should be directed to college or department staff. Jamf doesn’t interfere with Apple Remote Desktop so IT staff can run ARD and Jamf at the same time. 

Updates 

Jamf checks for and installs Apple Mac OS critical updates to TU Macs overnight. If a restart is needed, you’ll get a pop-up message or you can do it manually at a more convenient time. These updates are deployed to all Macs including classrooms and labs, which are managed by college and department staff.  

Antivirus definition updates are performed automatically by Microsoft Defender antivirus software.

Upgrades

Upgrading to a new OS is needed for accessing TU resources to ensure that you have security and optimal functionality. Check Apple’s macOS upgrade requirements then follow the steps. 

If your university-owned Mac is not compatible with the new macOS, see options for upgrading through TU’s Computer Trade-Up Program and EduCycle Computer Reconditioning Program. If your personally-owned Mac isn’t compatible, consult Apple’s Mac OS Support site for information and requirements. 

TU’s MacOS Upgrade Timeline 

Apple releases a new operating system (macOS) every year. Upgrading provides updated security, feature enhancements and prevents compatibility issues with other software. Here’s how it works for faculty/staff university-owned Macs: 

  1. Apple releases a new macOS each fall. 
  2. OTS tests it with university products and services. 
  3. OTS releases the new OS several weeks after Apple's release and notifies Mac clients through email.  
  4. Faculty and staff can then install it themselves on university-owned Macs.

Computer labs and classroom Macs are upgraded each year on a schedule determined by college and department staff. 

For help with a university-owned Mac, contact the OTS Technology Support Desk or submit a TechHelp service request. See more resources for using Macs at TU.

Repairs and Purchasing

OTS staff can help diagnose hardware issues on university Macs but doesn't perform hardware repairs. All university Macs must be purchased with AppleCare extended warranty (from 90 days to three years from purchase date). Go to Apple Support to check warranty status or for help with repairs or service. 

Review options for buying or replacing a university computer. See Apple Software Purchases options for Mac or Laptops, Tablets and Smartphones. If you're not sure, consult with the Tech Support Desk.

OTS does not provide assistance for personally-owned systems other than guidance for connecting to the university network. For help with repairs or service, contact Apple Support directly. Consider installing antivirus software - search the internet for reviews and recommendations. Learn more about preventing viruses and malware. 

Support

See TU resources and support options for using Apple products.