If you use a University-managed macOS or Windows device, you may receive a pop up notification that suggests that your device is obsolete. This article provides answers to some frequently asked questions on what it means when a device becomes obsolete. If you have any additional questions, contact Technology Help.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
I received a notification stating that my device is obsolete, what does this mean?
- A device is obsolete when it does not meet the minimum hardware requirements to remain compliant with University Information Security Policy. These insecure devices can not be part of the University's network or access University systems
My device is still meeting my needs, why can't I continue to use it?
- New versions of Operating Systems include updated patches against serious security vulnerabilities. As new Operating Systems are released, both Apple and Microsoft stop providing critical patches for older Operating systems. Additionally, some older hardware can't support newer Operating Systems leaving user data, and the entire University, at risk. To protect the University, and comply with Information Security policy, devices incapable of running supported Operating Systems must be removed from the University computing environment.
I would like to replace my obsolete device, what is my next step?
- Contact the person in your department responsible for managing IT equipment or purchases to discuss options.
I no longer have this device/ I never had this device, what do i do next?
- Contact Technology Help to resolve asset assignment issues.
How does the University of Minnesota determine that a device is "Vintage" or "Obsolete?"
- For Apple devices, the University of Minnesota uses the list of Vintage and Obsolete devices maintained by Apple as the minimum standard for Obsolete.
- For Windows devices, a device is considered obsolete by the University of Minnesota if it can not run a Windows OS that is supported and patched by Microsoft.
Why won't the University of Minnesota support my device any longer?
- Patching vulnerabilities to hardware devices and the software running on them is critical to maintaining a safe and secure environment. When a vendor will no longer provide security patches for a device, the device can not be used to safely access University data or resources.
Why was my obsolete device locked?
- Obsolete devices are unable to use a supported operating system. If a managed device is found using an unsupported operating system, the device may be locked remotely to ensure the security of any data on it and to prevent the device from acting as a security vulnerability to University systems. Technology help will be able to assist in transitioning data off of locked devices.
My device was locked, what are my next steps?
- Contact Technology Help if you need help transferring data off of the obsolete device. Otherwise, contact your departmental IT group or finance authority for assistance with device replacement if needed.
I was notified that my device is obsolete. I no longer need it or any data from it, what should I do?
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The device must be returned to be decommissioned and recycled. Use the instructions in Schedule a Recycling Pick-up with OIT to arrange to have your obsolete device recycled by The ReUse Center. The ReUse Center performs data sanitization on obsolete devices before reselling or recycling them in an environmentally friendly way.
This obsolete device is critical to a specific business use, how can I get it unlocked?
- Microsoft may offer extended support for security patching through the University's licensing agreement. To request continued patching for a Windows device, please read the details on the Windows 10 One Year Extended Support Request form and complete the form if it is applicable. Note that service and support will be limited for devices remaining on outdated operating systems.
- Your unit IT director or administrator may request exceptions from policy requiring devices to run current operating systems through this form. All unit exceptions are required to be submitted together on an annual basis.
- Exceptions may be granted when there is a valid business justification requiring that the device remains available. Exceptions will need to include a plan to replace the device and security risk mitigation such as network isolation.
I can install a different operating system on my old computer at home, why is this not supported by the University of Minnesota so I can keep my device?
- While there are some fantastic Linux distributions that can be installed on older computers, this is not a supported deployment model at the University of Minnesota for obsolete computers. Using a different operating system will not resolve the need to maintain security updates for the underlying hardware. Reviewing open sourced firmware releases for hardware no longer supported by the vendor is not a sustainable security practice.