macOS - Supported Versions and Hardware Recommendations

Summary

This article outlines ITS' recommendations and support versions for macOS.

Body

Overview

This article outlines ITS' recommendations and support versions for macOS.

ITS Supported Version

Currently, ITS supports the following macOS version(s):

  • macOS 14 Sonoma
  • macOS 15 Sequoia
  • macOS 26 Tahoe

These versions have been tested to ensure browser-application compatibility (link) for University use. We also recommendethat you stay up-to-date with the latest macOS patches or versions to maintain your computer's security, stability, and compatibility. Learn how to update macOS on Mac (link)

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Minimum System Requirements

The following articles are Apple's system requirements for the supported macOS versions:

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ITS Macintosh Computer Recommendations

The following recommendations will meet the needs of the general UH staff and students for email, web browsing, word processing, spreadsheet and other office productivity software. The systems listed are ITS minimum level recommendations. ITS recommends purchasing the systems listed below or systems that exceed these specifications.

UH students should consult with their respective college/school/department for specialized hardware/software requirements for their field of study, that are not covered under these general recommendations.

Macintosh Desktop

  • Current Generation Apple M chip with 10+ core CPU/GPU
  • 16GB RAM minimum; 32GB recommended for those running memory intensive applications
  • 512GB Solid State Drive recommended
  • Wired Gigabit Ethernet
  • Wi-Fi 4/5 (802.11n/ac) or higher (optional for desktop, except if desktop will be located where wired connection is unavailable or suboptimal)
  • Webcam with microphone
  • Backup device - External hard drive and/or USB Flash Drive
  • AppleCare (3 year warranty)

Macintosh Laptop

(if used as a primary computer)

  • Current Generation Apple M chip with 10+ core CPU/GPU
  • 16GB RAM minimum; 32GB recommended for those running memory intensive applications
  • 512GB Solid State Drive recommended
  • 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet Connection *
  • Webcam with microphone
  • Wireless 802.11ax built-in
  • Backup device - External hard drive and/or USB Flash Drive
  • AppleCare (3 year warranty)

* MacBook/Air/Pro requires purchase of a Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) to ethernet adapter.

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Purchasing

Macintosh desktops and laptops are available for purchase through:

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Details

Details

Article ID: 20169
Created
Mon 12/1/25 1:35 PM
Modified
Fri 12/12/25 2:45 PM