Let's set up your Mac device
The guide below outlines the steps required to set up your UNSW IT-managed Mac device for first use. During this process, you will connect to the internet, sign in with your UNSW credentials, and complete Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to securely configure your Mac device. The setup typically takes around 20 minutes and may involve several automatic restarts. Once complete, your device will be ready for access to UNSW systems and applications.
Step 1
Power on and select language
Start your Mac. When prompted, select English (Australia) from the list of languages to begin setup.
Step 2
Select your region
When asked to choose a region, select Australia and click Continue.
Step 3
Set up as a new Mac
At the “Transfer Your Data to This Mac” screen, select Set Up as New Mac, then continue.
Step 4
[Optional]
[Optional] Accessibility
If required, configure any accessibility options. Otherwise, continue to the next step.
Step 5
Connect to the internet
Next, connect your device to the internet. A wired connection is preferred, though Wi-Fi is supported.
- On campus:
Select eduroam, then click Connect.
Enter your zID email address (zid@ad.unsw.edu.au) and zPass, tick the box to remember your credentials, then select OK. - At home:
Select your home Wi-Fi network and enter your Wi-Fi password.
Once connected, proceed to the next step.
Note:
After establishing an internet connection, if the preloaded macOS version is not current, you will be prompted to update. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update.
This process may take up to 30 minutes. Once complete, you may need to restart the setup from Step 2.
Step 6
Enrol via Remote Management
When prompted with the Remote Management screen, proceed with enrolment.
Step 7
Sign in with your UNSW account
Enter your zID email address (zid@ad.unsw.edu.au) and zPass when prompted.
Step 8
Complete Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Approve the MFA request when prompted.
If MFA is not yet set up, refer to: Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) | MyIT - UNSW Sydney
After successful authentication, the device will begin its initial configuration.
This process may take up to 20 minutes, and your device may restart multiple times.
Step 9
Create a local Mac account
Your name and home folder will be pre-filled. Create a local password for your Mac account.
Password requirements:
- Minimum 6 characters
- Can be numeric or alphanumeric
- Must not contain repeating, ascending, or descending sequences
Select Continue to proceed.
Note: This password is separate from your zPass.
Step 10
Enable Location Services
Enable Location Services by selecting the checkbox, then click Continue.
Step 11
[Optional]
Set up Touch ID
You will be prompted to configure Touch ID. You may complete this now or choose to set it up later.
Once these steps are complete, your Mac will load to the macOS desktop and be ready for use.
Now that you're all set up, check out our other guides to set you up for success
Your IT essentials
Check out our broad range of IT services to kickstart your journey. Find out how to connect to Wi-Fi, access your Outlook emails, connect to UNSW VPN, and more!
Software on your device
For UNSW managed laptops or computers, you can install software using the Self-Service app on a Mac.
Software on demand
Access all of the software and applications available at UNSW on demand by taking advantage of My Apps.
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IT walk-in service centres
- Upper Campus IT Hub - Room G06, D26 Biological Sciences Building (Next door to XS Cafe) (View on map)
- Middle Campus IT Hub - G008, Ground Floor H13 Anita B Lawrence Centre (Formerly the Red Centre Building off University Mall) (View on map)
- Paddington Campus IT Hub - Ground Floor, Block D, Paddington Campus (View on map)
- UNSW Canberra ADFA Campus IT Hub - Ground Floor, Building 14, UNSW Canberra ADFA Campus (View on map)