macOS Big Sur: Before you Upgrade

macOS Big Sur, version 11.0, was released by Apple on November 12, 2020

Our Recommendation

• You verify that your computer hardware, software applications, and peripheral devices are all compatible with the new OS.
  • In some cases, if there is an upgrade solution for your 3rd party software applications and peripherals, it may not be free.
• You are aware of the changes that the new operating system brings and whether they will affect your work.
  • See what's new with macOS Big Sur

Coming from macOS Mojave 10.14 or older

If you are currently running macOS Mojave 10.14 or older, there are some important changes that came with macOS Catalina, 10.15, that also apply to Big Sur.

• 32-bit applications are no longer supported.
  • Most popular apps have transitioned to a 64-bit architecture by now, but you may still be using an old application that is 32-bit.
  • Find out which applications are 32-bit or 64-bit on your computer.
  • If a 32-bit application is critical for your work, you will need to find a 64-bit version, or consider waiting to upgrade until there is a replacement for the application.
• Some Kernel based extensions will no longer work.
  • If you received the following message for any of your extensions, you will likely be unable to use them until they are updated by the software developer. https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT210999
    
• iTunes has been replaced.
  • iTunes has been replaced by the new apps: Apple Music, Apple TV, Apple Podcasts, and Apple Books.
  • All of your content will still be available in those applications.
  • View Apple's article on the change for more details.