Before upgrading your macOS, you should take some time to prepare your computer. The most critical preparation step is backing up your computer.
You do not need to be connected to Carleton's network to upgrade. You can do the prep and upgrade from any location with a network connection. Set aside time to work through this list. Failing to do so could cause the upgrade to fail, rendering your computer unusable. You do not need to do these steps all at once, but you should keep track of what you have done so that you don't miss steps.
All links open in new tabs.
Know your current macOS version
Review any Known issues with this upgrade
Backup your computer
Check that your computer is eligible to upgrade (If your computer is not eligible to upgrade to Sonoma, you should still upgrade it as far as it can go)
macOS 14 Sonoma System Requirements
macOS 13 Ventura System Requirements
macOS 12 Monterey System Requirements
Apple no longer provides support or security updates for macOS 10 or macOS 11. The best course of action is to see if you can update to macOS 12 (which will provide security updates until Fall 2024), or macOS 13 or 14 if you're able. If these updates are not possible, the best course of action is to replace the computer.
Check the compatibility of your various applications
Check the readiness of your disk
Upgrade your macOS
After you upgrade
Resolve any Known issues
About macOS
Apple's Upgrade Guide
Application Compatibility from Roaring Apps