Apple has released its newest operating system, Big Sur, on November 12. ITS has completed testing of Big Sur to ensure compatibility with our applications and services. At this time, we have resolved all severe incompatibilities and are pleased to announce that Big Sur is approved for use on WCM computers.
Our testing identified and resolved multiple issues related to specific ITS applications to ensure Big Sur is functional. One minor issue with a workaround remains open. Details on these issues and fixes (where available) are below.
Please note: ITS cannot validate unique software you may use as part of your work. If you use software on your Mac beyond what ITS provides, we recommend you review compatibility for those specific applications. Some applications may require upgrades to function properly under Big Sur.
Crowdstrike
Impacted all tagged Macs
A previous version (5.41.12204) of WCM's institutional security software, Crowdstrike, may cause a kernel panic / hard freeze on boot under Big Sur. A new version was deployed to all WCM Macs. Users under Catalina will see 5.41.12205 or higher installed, while users under Big Sur will see version 6.11 or higher installed.
Box
Impacted Box users
Previously available versions of Box software may not function under Big Sur. Both Box Sync and Box Drive will automatically announce new versions in-app; users should accept these upgrades. Box Sync should be updated to at least version 4.0.8009. Box Drive should be updated to at least version 2.17.
Cisco AnyConnect (VPN)
Impacted VPN users
Previous versions of the AnyConnect VPN client may not function under Big Sur. Version 4.9.03047 is required for full functionality after upgrading. The AnyConnect client will update to the latest version automatically when connecting to the WCM VPN.
If the auto-update process fails, or you would like to manually install AnyConnect on a tagged device, please access the WCM App Store and install the Cisco AnyConnect package. Users with untagged devices can reinstall AnyConnect manually.
Weill Business Gateway
Impacts Chrome users on Big Sur
We have observed that certain tiles within Weill Business Gateway does not function for the Chrome browser under Big Sur. Users will see an error code 500 referencing an unsupported browser.
ITS developers are working to resolve the issue. Until it can be resolved, Big Sur users should make use of Safari or Firefox when accessing Weill Business Gateway. (Safari users may need to enable cross-site tracking for WBG to function normally.)