An Operating System (OS) is the foundational software that manages computer hardware, software resources, and provides common services for applications. It’s what allows you to interact with your device — whether it's a desktop, laptop, tablet, or mobile phone — and run software like email, browsers, and productivity tools.
KAUST IT supports a select list of operating systems to ensure compatibility, security, and long-term maintainability across all University-owned devices. This page outlines the supported platforms and frequently asked questions about upgrades and compliance.
| OS Name | OS Version | Latest Update | Support Status | End of Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windows | ||||
 Windows | Windows 11 | 23H2 | Active (Default) | TBD |
| Windows | Windows 10 | 22H2 | Phasing Out | 14-Oct-2025 |
| Windows | Windows 8.1 | EOL | End of Service (EoS) | 10-Jan-2023 |
| Windows | Windows 7 SP1 | EOL | End of Service (EoS) | 14-Jan-2020 |
| macOS | ||||
 macOS | macOS Sequoia (15) | 15.5 | Active (Default) | TBD |
| macOS | macOS Sonoma (14) | 14.7 | Active | TBD |
| macOS | macOS Ventura (13) | 13.6.8 | Phasing Out | TBD |
| macOS | macOS Monterey (12) | 12.7.6 | End of Service (EoS) | 1-Dec-2024 |
| Linux | ||||
 Ubuntu | 24.04 LTS | 24.04 | Testing | TBD |
| Ubuntu | 22.04 LTS | 22.04 | Active (Default) | TBD |
| Ubuntu | 20.04 LTS | 20.04 | End of Service (EoS) | 4-Jan-2025 |
| Ubuntu | 18.04 LTS | EOL | End of Service (EoS) | 23-Apr-2023 |
| Status | Description |
|---|---|
| Testing | This platform is not yet supported by KAUST IT. |
| Active (Default) | This platform is supported by KAUST IT and new machines will be built with this OS unless otherwise requested. |
| Active | This platform is supported by KAUST IT and will be installed on request. |
| Phasing Out | This OS is no longer supported for new builds. Security updates will continue for existing installations, but feature updates are discontinued. Migration is strongly encouraged. |
| End of Service (EoS) | This platform is no longer supported. Use requires justification, approval, and is subject to periodic review. |
With updates and patches no longer being provided, this would leave the computer operating on Windows 10 to have less security and compatibility measures. This will result in the computer to be a risk to the KAUST network and will not be able to receive services from the network.
KAUST Minimum Security Standard
Please note: If you are running a virtual machine, then that would require an upgrade as well.
Windows 10 Users:
Yes, KAUST IT will roll out the Windows 11 upgrade in phases for all compatible devices. You will receive an email notification when the upgrade process is scheduled to begin on your device.
MacOS Users:
KAUST Devices running on a Mac Operating System may upgrade the device themselves through the Self-Service App by following a guide here.
Users can begin checking their machine by taking the steps below:
1) To check the current version of windows you’re running:
a) Open Windows Settings
b) In the search bar type: About your PC
c) Scroll down to find Windows Specifications and view the edition of Windows installed.
An example can be seen below of what should be found:
