Boston College supports both Mac and Windows computers. Chromebooks and Tablets may not be the right choice for your primary computer on campus.
Mac
BC recommends:
- Students: macOS Ventura (v. 13) or Monterey (v. 12) with the latest system updates.
- Faculty & Staff: macOS Ventura (v. 13) or macOS Monterey (v. 12) with the latest system updates.
Apple released macOS Sonoma (v. 14) commercially on September 26, 2023.
Please note that Sonoma (v. 14) may not be compatible with all Mac computers. Check Apple's macOS Sonoma compatibility list to ensure your computer is compatible with Sonoma.
What does BC Recommend?
Currently, ITS is testing this release with BC supported applications (and waiting for vendors to update their software to be compatible).
Please note that macOS Sonoma (v. 14) has some known compatibility issues with the software and services you use on campus. Because of these incompatibilities, it may be in your best interest not to upgrade now, unless you have a specific need to use Sonoma.
Before you upgrade to Sonoma, make sure your computer and all software is compatible with this version. Check back here for compatibility testing results and recommendations.
If you have issues with Sonoma, contact the Help Center (617-552-4357 or help.center@bc.edu) for assistance.
Apple released macOS Ventura (v. 13) commercially on October 24, 2022.
Please note that Ventura (v. 13) may not be compatible with all Mac computers. Check Apple's macOS Ventura compatibility list to ensure your computer is compatible with Ventura.
Note: 32-bit apps no longer work on macOS.
What does BC Recommend?
Please note that Ventura (v. 13) has some known compatibility issues with the software and services you use on campus.
Some things to note about Ventura (v. 13):
- Students: All core student apps at BC are supported on Ventura.
- Faculty & Staff: Please note that Ventura has some known compatibility issues with the software and services you use on campus, including Dell Data Security (DDS). Because of these incompatibilities, it may not be in your best interest to upgrade now, unless you have a specific need to use Ventura (v. 13).
How can I upgrade my computer to Ventura (v. 13)?
Before you upgrade to Ventura (v. 13), make sure your computer and all software is compatible with this version. See “macOS Application Support @ BC” for compatibility testing results and recommendations.
Faculty & staff
There are still some applications used on campus that are not compatible with Ventura (v. 13). Please check with your TC before upgrading.
We recommend that you contact your TC for assistance with upgrading to Ventura (v. 13).
Students
We recommend you get assistance with upgrading to Ventura (v. 13). Students can bring their computer to the Walk-In Help Desk (O’Neill 3rd floor).
Apple released macOS Monterey (v. 12) commercially on October 25, 2021.
Please note that Monterey (v. 12) may not be compatible with all Mac computers. Check Apple's macOS Monterey compatibility list to ensure your computer is compatible with Monterey.
Note: 32-bit apps no longer work on macOS.
What does BC Recommend?
Please note that Monterey (v. 12) has some known compatibility issues with the software and services you use on campus.
Some things to note about Monterey (v. 12):
- Students: All core student apps at BC are supported on Monterey.
- Faculty & Staff: Please note that Monterey has some known compatibility issues with the software and services you use on campus, including Altiris and Dell Data Security (DDS). Because of these incompatibilities, it may not be in your best interest to upgrade now, unless you have a specific need to use Monterey (v. 12).
How can I upgrade my computer to Monterey (v. 12)?
Before you upgrade to Monterey (v. 12), make sure your computer and all software is compatible with this version. See “macOS Application Support @ BC” for compatibility testing results and recommendations.
Faculty & staff
There are still some applications used on campus that are not compatible with Monterey (v. 12). Please check with your TC before upgrading.
We recommend that you contact your TC for assistance with upgrading to Monterey (v. 12).
Students
We recommend you get assistance with upgrading to Monterey (v. 12). Students can bring their computer to the Walk-In Help Desk (O’Neill 3rd floor).
Apple is no longer supporting these versions of macOS:
- Big Sur (v. 11)
- Catalina (v. 10.15)
- Mojave (v. 10.14)
- High Sierra (v. 10.13)
- Sierra (v. 10.12)
- El Capitan (v. 10.11)
- Yosemite (v. 10.10)
- Mavericks (v. 10.9)
- Mountain Lion (v. 10.8) and below
If you are using one of the macOS versions listed above, please talk to your TC or the Help Center to upgrade to a more recent version of macOS.
Faculty & staff with non-BCCR computers
Running Windows on Macs
There are significant challenges to running Windows, and Windows-based software, on Macs. Apple’s transition to Macs with M1 chips has exacerbated these challenges. Previous solutions, e.g., Boot Camp or Parallels, are not available with the M1 chip.
Note: For technical reasons, Office 2019, O365, and other course specific applications are NOT currently available on the application server, BCApps.
Tip: You should always backup your computer before you upgrade to a new operating system.
Windows
BC recommends:
- Students: Microsoft Windows 11 or Windows 10 with the latest system updates.
- Faculty & Staff: Microsoft Windows 10 with the latest system updates.
Microsoft released Windows 11 commercially on Oct 5, 2021.
What does BC Recommend?
Please note that Windows 11 has some known compatibility issues with the software and services you use on campus.
Some things to note about Windows 11:
- Students: All core student apps at BC are supported on Windows 11.
- Faculty & Staff: Please note that Windows 11 has some known compatibility issues with the software and services you use on campus. Because of these incompatibilities, it may not be in your best interest to upgrade now, unless you have a specific need to use Windows 11.
How can I upgrade my computer to Windows 11?
Before you upgrade to Windows 11, make sure your computer and all software is compatible with this version. See “Windows Application Support @ BC” for compatibility testing results and recommendations.
Faculty & staff
There are still some applications used on campus that are not compatible with Windows 11. Please check with your TC before upgrading.
We recommend that you contact your TC for assistance with upgrading to Windows 11.
Note: BC’s agreement with Microsoft does not allow faculty & staff to install the Windows operating system (Enterprise or Education) on their personal computers.
Students
We recommend you get assistance with upgrading to Windows 11. Students can bring their computer to the Walk-In Help Desk (O’Neill 3rd floor).
Microsoft commercially released Windows 10 on July 29, 2015. There are several versions of Windows 10, including Windows 10 Home, Windows 10 Enterprise, Windows 10 Pro, and Windows 10 S.
Windows 10 may have compatibility issues with the software and services you use on campus.
How can I upgrade my computer to Windows 10 Enterprise?
Before you upgrade, make sure all your other software is compatible with this version.
- Faculty & Staff: If you are interested in moving to Windows 10 Enterprise, please contact your Technology Consultant.
- Students: You can bring your computer to the Walk-In Help Desk (O’Neill 3rd floor).
Windows 10 Feature Updates
Microsoft is now releasing major Feature Updates to the Windows operating system about once a year that update built-in apps and add new features. These updates may take 60-90 minutes to complete.
- The 22H2 Feature Update was available to BC-owned computers starting January 30, 2023.
What to expect
Your computer will automatically download the Feature Update and notify you that it’s ready to install. You’ll be prompted to pick a time, remind you later, or do the update by restarting now. Please do not turn off your computer during the update.
After the update
Upon logging in, you will see a screen that says “Getting things ready, this won't take long” for a few minutes before your desktop loads. You may need to reconnect to the BC network after the update.
- Wired Internet: Unplug the Ethernet cord from your computer and re-plug it in. If prompted, click Connect.
- WiFi: Re-connect to “eduroam.”
On May 2, 2017, Microsoft announced the release of their new operating system Windows 10 S, marketed heavily to students and educators. Windows 10 S has been "streamlined for security and superior performance" and is set to compete with the Chromebook. It is a no frills operating system that restricts installation to applications that are downloaded from the Windows Store. This allows for better security management, as you will not be able to install .exe files that may contain malware, viruses, and other malicious software.
Microsoft released its new Surface Laptop, equipped with Windows 10 S. More computers with Windows 10 S from Acer, HP, Asus, Dell, and Lenovo are also available at a very affordable price.
What does this mean for BC?
As a higher education institution, we are anticipating an increase in devices with Windows 10 S. Unfortunately, many standard applications used at BC cannot be installed on Windows 10 S computers because they are not in the Windows Store, including UIS, Eagle VPN (Cisco Secure Client - AnyConnect VPN), Pharos remote printing software, and the Microsoft Office Suite.
Does BC recommend Windows 10 S?
To get full access to the applications you may need at BC, ITS recommends that you upgrade your Windows 10 S computer to Windows 10 Pro.
Important: Once you upgrade to Windows 10 Pro, there is no option to go back to Windows 10 S.
How can I upgrade my computer to Windows 10 Pro?
To upgrade without assistance:
- You can upgrade for a fee through the Windows Store (typically $49).
To upgrade to Windows 10 Pro for free:
- Faculty & Staff: If you are interested in upgrading, please contact your Technology Consultant.
- Students: You can bring your computer to the Walk-In Help Desk (O’Neill 3rd floor).
Important: Once you upgrade to Windows 10 Pro, there is no option to go back to Windows 10 S.
Microsoft is no longer supporting Window 8, 7, or XP.
If you are using Windows 8, 7, or XP, please talk to your TC or the Help Center to upgrade to a more recent version of Windows.
Faculty & staff with non-BCCR computers
If you are using Windows 10 Home, please be aware of the following:
- Windows 10 Home does not support a multilingual user interface.
- Home versions do not let you join the BC domain. If you need access to on-campus servers and BC printers, you need to join the BC domain. You do not need to join the BC domain to print to the Libraries (i.e., remote printing). Note: Students can access the web and most BC online services (Agora Portal, etc.) by just connecting to the BC wireless or wired network, so it's not necessary to join the BC domain.
If you need a multilingual user interface or need to join the BC domain, BC recommends you upgrade to Windows 10 Pro.
How do I upgrade my version of Windows?
- Faculty and Staff: Contact your Technology Consultant (TC) to help you get an upgrade.
- Students: BC can install (for free) a newer version of Windows for students who bring their computers to the Walk-In Help Desk. Important: You must back up your data before installing a new operating system.
Tip: You should always backup your computer before you upgrade to a new operating system.
Chromebooks and Tablets
Chromebooks and Tablets (Android, iPad, Kindle Fire) may not be the right choice for your primary computer on campus. Limitations include:
- Some applications are not available on Chromebooks or Tablets. For example, some classes require online testing software (Respondus Lockdown Browser in Canvas), which are not fully compatible on Chromebooks or Tablets. Work around: The O'Neill Library, Social Work Library & Educational Resource Center (ERC) offer Mac & Windows laptop loaners.
- Be aware of your software needs and your computer's capacity. Chromebooks & Tablets do not have the capacity to install large programs (such as Microsoft Project, Visual Basic, etc).
Mobile Devices
In general, mobile device support, including support for smart phones, is based on platform as opposed to a particular device. These mobile device platforms are supported at Boston College:
- Android
- iPad & iPhone
- Windows Mobile
Note: ITS does not endorse or recommend a specific carrier, because of the unique needs of individuals and departments at Boston College.
Standard support of mobile devices at BC includes the following:
- BC WiFi activation and configuration
- BC email configuration
- Syncing calendar and contacts
- First-level hardware and software diagnostic troubleshooting
Standard support is based on compatibility with BC standard services. As technology evolves, BC is committed to evaluating and testing emerging mobile technologies, updating documentation, training support personnel, and working with carriers to evaluate products and services.
You are responsible for:
- Battery replacement and hardware failure
- Data backup and loss on mobile device
- GPS, Bluetooth, infrared, and near-field communication uses of your device
- Third-party or beta software not standardized by BC
Note: Such software is not recommended by BC and may limit standard support services. - Purchase of BC-standardized third-party software solutions
BC does not support the synchronization of a mobile device with multiple computers. If you choose to use an unsupported device, refer to your phone carrier or device vendor’s website for support.
Mobile devices such as laptops, smartphones, iPads, tablets, and external hard drives (usb flash drives, etc.) can contain confidential data. The fact that these devices are mobile makes them particularly vulnerable to threats, since they can be easily accessed, misplaced, or stolen. Take precautions to ensure each of your devices are protected.
Mobile Devices and BC Data Security Policy
In compliance with Boston College's Data Security Policy (PDF), the following should be considered when working with mobile devices:
- Non-public BC data should not be accessible to anyone who obtains a lost or stolen device.
- Any non-public BC data stored on a device must be encrypted.
If your mobile device cannot adhere to the guidelines listed on this page, you should not store confidential or sensitive data on the device.
Mobile Device Security Tips
- Install updates - All mobile device software and downloaded applications should be kept up-to-date.
- Use antivirus software, if available - While BC does not provide mobile antivirus software, you may obtain it at your own cost. he antivirus software should be configured to download updates as they become available.
- Use Built-In Security Features (Note: Not all mobile devices include these security features.)
- Require authentication: Always set a PIN, password, or security pattern on your device. If possible, set complex passwords.
- Enable the device to erase all data after 10 unsuccessful log in attempts.
- Enable remote wipe. Most major mobile devices have the ability to remotely lock, delete, or disable your device if it becomes lost, stolen, or compromised.
- Enable idle time lockout and auto-lock.
- Turn on location apps for your phone such as "Find my iPhone" or find your Android device.
- Encrypt your mobile device. Do not store or transmit confidential (sensitive) or restricted data on your device unless it is encrypted. Examples of confidential data: passwords, social security numbers, bank account or credit card numbers, etc. For encryption guidance, see BC’s Data Security Directive.
- Do not use auto-complete features that remember user names and/or passwords.
- Carefully choose your apps and review privacy policies - Do not install software from unknown sources as they may contain malicious software. Review the application’s privacy policy before installing software. Many applications collect and share information about you, such as location-tracking. Pay close attention to the list of required permissions prior to installing an app, and consider alternatives to a permissions-heavy app.
- Backup regularly - Backup important files to your computer (or other device) in case your device is lost, stolen, or broken.
- Do not access sensitive or restricted data with public Wi-Fi - When banking or shopping, make sure the site is security enabled. Look for web addresses that begin with “https” and have a padlock image in the web address or status bar, which means the site is verified and encrypted. Consider using the BC VPN, which encrypts everything, if you're not sure.
- Configure wireless to ask to join before connecting to a wireless network - When wireless is on, select the “ask to join network” option to prevent automatic connections with unknown wireless networks.
- Turn off wireless - When not in use, disable Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, location-tracking, etc., to prevent unauthorized use (and to save power!).
- Consider using a program that provides a contact point if someone finds your locked device and wishes to return it. For example, the “If Found Lock Screen” for Apple products.
- Report lost or stolen devices - Immediately report when your device is lost or stolen and has BC confidential data on it to the BC Help Center at 617-552-4357. After you have remotely wiped your device, notify your mobile carrier to disable it.
- Remove all data from the device before selling or discarding your mobile device.
- When in doubt, don't respond - Fraudulent email, texting, and calling are on the rise. Requests for personal and financial information, or for immediate action are almost always a scam. Do not respond to anything suspicious on a mobile device. Instead, wait 24 hours and respond from a computer, which has antivirus, malicious website detection, and generally better malware detection. If you notice anything unusual or have questions about a suspicious email, text, or call, please contact the BC Help Center immediately at 617-552-4357.
Beta Software
BC does not support beta software and does not recommend using beta software as your primary operating system or for software that is critical for you.