Supported Hardware 

Apple Computers

• iMac 2016 and older
• MacBook Pro 2016 and older
• MacBook Air 2017 and older
• Mac mini 2017 and older

Find your Mac model & serial number

FAQs

1. I have a supported desktop computer that is now over six years old, or a supported laptop/tablet that is over five years old. They seem to be running OK, what happens if either of them breaks?

The department would need to make arrangement with the bookstore for repairs. If there are related software issues, the department is responsible for them, the bookstore maybe able to assist for a fee.

2. In the past my department has continued to use computers that are no longer supported by ITS. Is this still possible?

Technically, yes, but if the computer is not properly secured and kept-up-to-date with patches/policies the department runs the risk of having the computer compromised, data stolen, credentials harvested, etc. In addition, the department will need to manage hardware and software maintenance and repairs as well. 

3. How often should laptops/tablets and desktop be replaced?

Laptops/tablets are recommended to be replaced every four years and desktops at least every five years.

4. I have a supported computer that is now over six years old or a laptop/tablet. They seem to be running OK but what happens if there is a problem with their software, they start to run slow, I need a newer version of software installed, etc?

If IT can still technically support the computer by re-imaging it using its enterprise tools, it will often do this one time past the life of the hardware. Note that all existing software will be erased along with any files that were saved on the hard drive. The specialist will not be able to assist in moving any software or files on or off the system and they will ask for the contact information of the supervisor in the area so that a member of IT can reach out and encourage its replacement as quickly as possible. Please also note that in many cases old systems cannot be re-imaged, the re-imaging process may cause unforeseen complications or even a situation where the software is irreparably corrupted, etc. In these situations IT will not be able to provide remediation. In essence, if there is a problem with software on an unsupported computer, the department is responsible for remediation.

5. If a department has a computer no longer supported by IT, can the Bookstore support it at a cost to the department?

The bookstore provides limited support (parts ordering/replacement, data backup OS installs) for a cost.

6. How does a department go about changing management of their supported computer from IT to self-managed?

It is highly recommended that NDSU office computers be manage by IT to keep them up-to-date and secure.  In rare cases where a department needs to manage a system themselves, please backup any data saved on the computer, then submit a ticket to IT to have the ITS image removed. The department software contact would then work with IT Software Licensing to obtain copies of any software the department plans to install on the computer, including re-installing the Operating System.  If the computer is currently in the Sensitive Data Computer tier, the change to self-managed needs to be approved by IT Security.  Please note once a computer is self-managed the department is fully responsible for its maintenance, security and being kept up-to-date  Failure to do so could have dire consequences including a loss of private information, harvested credentials, expensive notification procedures, etc.

Support Overview