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wastedplacidity

macrumors newbie
Original poster
May 4, 2021
18
26
Also is a Mac a good choice for a cybersecurity major or would I be better off using my windows gaming laptop.
 
Ordinarily MacOS versions are supported for three years from release, so as a minimum I expect my Early 2015 MBP to run a supported OS (Monterey) for the next three years.
I expect Intel Macs sold today might run a supported OS for longer, but clearly we are in a moment of transition and normal rules might not apply.
I would be more worried about how long the Intel version of my Apps is going to be supported (both third party’s and Apple’s).

How soon will we see Apple release versions of their pro software (FCP, Logic) with functionality that can only run on AS?
They might support the OS and the hardware, but that means nothing if the latest version of your main software can’t (fully) run.
 
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Regarding whether Mac is a good choice for your course - best to check with your education provider. They may have specific requirements that mean Mac is not an option.

If it is ok - my only advice would be: make the change to Mac sooner rather than later so you can get used to the differences between PC and Mac.

Apple will at very least offer security updates and basic support for a good few years to come... but ideally, if buying into the Mac ecosystem - go for an M1 machine. That will guarantee you the best future in terms of Apple's support.
 
Apple supports hardware for at least five years after the date it is discontinued. So, for Intel Macs that are still on the market, that countdown has not even started yet.

"Owners of iPhone, iPad, iPod, Mac, or Apple TV products may obtain service and parts from Apple service providers, including Apple Retail Stores and Independent Repair Providers, for a minimum of 5 years from when Apple last distributed the product for sale."

 
You would be better off on a PC with linux or Windows if you are majoring in cybersecurity honestly.

If you still wanna use a Mac then stick with an Intel chip Mac so you can boot into Linux and Windows.

An M1 Mac will not run Windows and not worth it to run Linux on Arm.
 
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Hoping it gets much easier in the next 2 years. Exploring Crossover and that Windows 11 on ARM in Parallels. Windows is basically my Playstation 5 in my world.
 
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