macOS Big Sur

Basic Information

• Model: macOS Big Sur (version 11)
• Release Date: November 12, 2020
• Minimum Requirements: 4GB RAM, 35.5GB available storage (when upgrading from macOS Sierra or later).
• Supported Operating Systems: Runs on specific Mac hardware models.
• Latest Stable Version: 11.7.10 (released September 11, 2023).
• End of Support Date: September 26, 2023.
• End of Life Date: Effectively September 26, 2023, as security updates ceased.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Updates ceased with the end of support on September 26, 2023.
• License Type: Proprietary software with open-source components.
• Deployment Model: Supports organization-owned (one-to-one or shared devices) and user-owned (Bring Your Own Device - BYOD) models.

Technical Requirements

• RAM: Minimum 4GB.
• Processor: 64-bit Intel processor or Apple ARM-based processor (e.g., M1).
• Storage: 35.5GB for upgrades from macOS Sierra or later; up to 44.5GB for upgrades from earlier releases.
• Display: Compatible with standard Mac displays. Specific features like HDR video playback require certain Mac models (e.g., MacBook Pro 2018 or later, iMac Pro 2017 or later, Mac Pro 2019 with Pro Display XDR).
• Ports: Relies on the ports available on compatible Mac hardware.
• Operating System: macOS Big Sur is the operating system itself. It runs on compatible Mac hardware.

Analysis: macOS Big Sur represents a significant architectural shift, being the first macOS version to natively support Apple Silicon (ARM-based) processors, alongside continued support for Intel-based Macs. This dual-architecture support ensures compatibility across a range of modern Apple hardware. The minimum RAM and storage requirements are modest, but optimal performance, especially with newer features and demanding applications, benefits from higher specifications. Big Sur notably dropped support for several older Mac models that were compatible with its predecessor, macOS Catalina.

Support & Compatibility

• Latest Version: macOS Big Sur 11.7.10.
• OS Support: Compatible with iMac (Mid 2014 or later), iMac Pro (2017), MacBook (Early 2015 or later), MacBook Air (Mid 2013 or later), MacBook Pro (Late 2013 or later), Mac mini (Late 2014 or later), and Mac Pro (Late 2013 or later).
• End of Support Date: September 26, 2023.
• Localization: Supports English and 32 additional languages, including Arabic, Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), French, German, Japanese, Korean, Russian, and Spanish.
• Available Drivers: Drivers are generally integrated into macOS. Kernel extensions (kexts) require explicit user approval and Apple is transitioning developers to System Extensions and DriverKit for enhanced security and stability.

Analysis: macOS Big Sur's official support ended in September 2023. This means it no longer receives security updates, making continued use on internet-connected devices potentially unsafe. While it supports a broad range of Intel-based Macs, its primary compatibility milestone is the introduction of native support for Apple Silicon Macs. Its extensive localization ensures global accessibility. The shift away from traditional kernel extensions enhances system stability and security, though it requires developers to adapt.

Security Status

• Security Features:
  • Signed System Volume (SSV): Cryptographically signed system volume ensures integrity and prevents tampering with core OS files.
  • Read-only System Volume: Stores system content in a separate, protected area.
  • Gatekeeper and App Notarization: Verifies software for malicious content before execution.
  • XProtect: Built-in anti-malware system.
  • Privacy Report in Safari: Provides transparency on website trackers.
  • Faster Updates: Designed for quicker and easier software updates, encouraging timely patching.
  • Kernel Extension Approval: All kernel extensions require user approval.
• Known Vulnerabilities: The initial release (11.0) contained 60 vulnerabilities, some actively exploited, which were addressed in version 11.0.1. A significant vulnerability bypassing File Quarantine, Gatekeeper, and app notarization was patched in macOS 11.3.
• Blacklist Status: Not applicable for the operating system itself.
• Certifications: macOS, including Big Sur, is UNIX 03 certified.
• Encryption Support: Supports FileVault for full-disk encryption and file-level encryption, particularly on Apple Silicon Macs.
• Authentication Methods: Supports password-based login, Touch ID (on compatible Macs), and iCloud account recovery for FileVault-encrypted disks.
• General Recommendations: Users should employ strong, unique passwords, enable FileVault, limit administrative user accounts, and keep all software, including the operating system and third-party applications, up to date.

Analysis: macOS Big Sur significantly advanced Apple's security posture with features like the Signed System Volume, making the OS more resilient to tampering. However, like many complex software releases, early versions had notable vulnerabilities that required prompt patching. The end of official support in September 2023 means Big Sur no longer receives critical security updates, rendering it increasingly vulnerable to newly discovered exploits. Therefore, its overall security rating for current use is low, and upgrading to a supported macOS version is strongly recommended.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores: Big Sur was the first macOS to run on Apple's M1 chip, which demonstrated significant performance and power efficiency gains over previous Intel-based Macs in various benchmarks.
• Real-world Performance Metrics: Safari in Big Sur showed notable speed improvements, being up to 50% faster than Google Chrome at its release. The operating system generally offers a fluid user experience, though performance varies based on specific Mac hardware configurations.
• Power Consumption: On Apple Silicon Macs, Big Sur contributes to significantly improved power efficiency, leading to longer battery life.
• Carbon Footprint: While not a direct OS metric, Apple designs its software and hardware with environmental considerations, aiming for energy efficiency.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Compared to macOS Catalina, Big Sur introduced a major user interface redesign and was foundational for the transition to Apple Silicon, offering a new level of integration and performance for M1-equipped Macs.

Analysis: Big Sur marks a pivotal moment in macOS performance due to its native support for Apple Silicon. On M1 Macs, it delivers exceptional speed, responsiveness, and power efficiency. For supported Intel Macs, it offers a refined experience with performance improvements in key applications like Safari. The overall performance status is strong, particularly on newer hardware, representing a significant leap forward in Apple's ecosystem.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews and feedback for macOS Big Sur highlight its significant visual overhaul and the foundational support for Apple Silicon as major strengths. Users generally appreciate the modern, iOS-inspired design, including redesigned icons, a more spacious interface, and the new Control Center. Enhancements to core applications like Safari (faster performance, improved privacy features), Messages, and Maps also receive positive feedback. The ability to run iOS and iPadOS apps natively on Apple Silicon Macs is a highly praised feature.

However, initial releases faced criticism for several weaknesses. Some users reported issues with the update process, including slow installations and, in rare cases, bricking of older MacBook Pro models. Early versions also experienced performance slowdowns due to Gatekeeper issues and a vulnerability that bypassed security protections. Some design changes, such as the new widget implementation, were not universally welcomed, with some users preferring the previous functionality.

Recommended use cases for macOS Big Sur primarily involve users with newer Mac hardware, especially those with Apple Silicon, who benefit most from its performance and native iOS app compatibility. It is also suitable for users who appreciate a modern, consistent aesthetic across Apple's ecosystem. For users with older, unsupported Intel Macs, the lack of ongoing security updates makes it a less recommended choice for daily use, particularly when connected to the internet.

Summary

Apple macOS Big Sur (version 11) represents a landmark release in the evolution of Apple's desktop operating system. Released on November 12, 2020, it introduced a comprehensive visual redesign, bringing a fresh, modern aesthetic that aligns macOS more closely with iOS and iPadOS.

A major strength of Big Sur is its pioneering support for Apple Silicon, marking the transition from Intel processors. This enables significant performance gains, improved power efficiency, and the ability to run iOS and iPadOS applications natively on compatible Macs. Key applications like Safari received substantial updates, offering enhanced speed and privacy features. Security was bolstered with features such as the cryptographically Signed System Volume (SSV), which verifies the integrity of the operating system at runtime.

However, Big Sur's initial rollout was not without challenges. Some users encountered installation issues, and early versions contained a number of vulnerabilities, including one that bypassed core security protections, necessitating prompt updates. The most critical weakness now is its end-of-support status as of September 26, 2023. This means macOS Big Sur no longer receives security updates, rendering it increasingly susceptible to new threats and making it an unsuitable choice for systems requiring robust security.

In summary, macOS Big Sur was a transformative operating system, ushering in a new design language and the era of Apple Silicon. While it offered significant advancements in performance, features, and initial security, its current unsupported status makes it a high-risk choice for active use. Users are strongly advised to upgrade to a currently supported version of macOS to ensure ongoing security and access to the latest features.

The information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.