Apple released its operating system (macOS Big Sur) for Apple computers last fall. ITS has reviewed this operating system and is recommending that users check for application compatibility and do the upgrade if their applications are compatible.
It is STRONGLY recommended to back-up all important data prior to upgrading.
Before you may upgrade you will need to verify if the Crowdstrike Falcon Application is installed.
If you see the Falcon application installed you may continue with doing the Big Sur upgrade. If you do not have the Falcon application installed please follow the instructions:
Application | Supported | Notes |
Office 2011 | Not Supported | Will not work |
Office 2016 | Not Supported | Will work but should be upgraded to 2019 |
Office 2019 | Supported | |
SPSS (v.25) and older | Not Supported | Will not work |
SPSS (v.26) | Supported* | *may have some issues, recommend upgrade to newer version |
SPSS (v.27 and 28) | Supported | |
Adobe CS6, CC 2020 and lower, Acrobat XI, DC 2020 and lower | Not Supported | Will not work |
Adobe CC/Acrobat DC 2021 and higher | Supported* | *may have some issues. See for details : https://helpx.adobe.com/download-install/kb/macos-big-sur.html |
Symantec Antivirus | Not Supported | Must upgrade to Crowdstrike |
Filemaker 11 | Not Supported | Will not work |
Global Protect (VPN) | Supported | |
Pulse Secure (VPN) | Supported | |
Other Applications | Check with Manufacturer | 32-bit apps will not work (see below to check). Check with mfg for any other apps. |
Networked University Printers | Should work | All large networked Canons will work. Some networked HP’s may have issues. |
Personal Printers | Check with Manufacturer |
1. Click the Apple icon in the top left corner of your screen.
2. Select About This Mac.
3. Click System Report.
4. Scroll down to the Software section and click Applications
5. You'll see a list of apps. Select any app you want to check. It will list info in the window below. If an app is 32-bit you will need to update or find a replacement before you get the MacOS Big Sur upgrade. Please note, there will be many items on the list that are irrelevant. You only need to check for any additional apps you specifically installed and need.
To proceed with the Big Sur upgrade:
For further assistance, please enter a ticket at fairfield.edusupportcenter.com
ITS Help Desk Hours of Operation
Contact the ITS Help Desk in the Library Rm 230 or at (203) 254-4069 for Assistance.