CN - Mac - Known Issues in Big Sur

Issue/Question

• Is macOS Big Sur recommended for Community Network computers?
• Should I upgrade to Big Sur?

Environment

• Employee or Student Employee
• Community Network-supported computer

Explanation

Big Sur was released on November 12, 2020. It will ship on new computers from Apple.

Community Network supports Big Sur, but we do not recommend upgrading late 2013 and mid-2014 13-inch MacBook Pros (see below for details).

For a list of Mac models that support Big Sur, see: https://www.apple.com/macos/how-to-upgrade/

Before you upgrade, make sure you backup your Mac.

Known Issues with macOS Big Sur:

• Can't access files after upgrading to Big Sur on AD domain-joined computer. Upgrading to Big Sur is not recommended for domain-joined computers at this time.
• On Apple Silicon Macs, it will no longer be possible to run Windows, but Intel Macs will still be able to run Windows.
• Computers locking up post-upgrade: There have been reports of the upgrade locking the computers up. If you decide to upgrade ensure you have a recent backup first. See: CN - Mac - When and How to Upgrade
• Black screens on some MacBook Pro models: Some late-2013 and mid-2014 models of the 13-inch MacBook Pro get stuck on a black screen during installation and there is no reported fix at this time.
• Remote Desktop quitting unexpectedly: for resolution, see MacOS - Remote Desktop Quits after Upgrade to Big Sur
• Box client issues: The Box client has known issues on M1 Macs, and sometimes has issues on Intel Macs that have been upgraded to Big Sur. Box has released a Beta version of a new client that should work with M1 computers. See: https://support.box.com/hc/en-us/articles/1500004479962-Box-Drive-support-on-devices-with-M1-chips

Tested Software That Does Work with Big Sur:

• Zoom: Version 5.4.3 of Zoom seems to work well on Big Sur. Earlier versions of Zoom may also work, but upgrading is recommended.
• Cisco AnyConnect VPN client: Big Sur requires Cisco AnyConnect version 4.9.04043 or higher. Earlier versions of AnyConnect will not work on Big Sur. The AnyConnect installation may also require additional steps to allow system extensions.
• Anti-virus: Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is compatible with Big Sur. Community Network customers can contact the Service Desk for assistance installing antivirus software. Other departments should contact their IT support team.

Enhancements

• Big Sur announcement: https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2020/11/macos-big-sur-is-here/
• Support for M1 chip.