After nearly two decades, Apple finally decided to leave macOS 10 behind and introduce macOS 11. Many people installed the operating system immediately after the release with the strong belief that Apple knows what they are doing. Of course, the new macOS 11 was bound to be an upgrade from its predecessors, but is it really better than what you are currently using? What are its downsides? Read on for a few reasons you might want to avoid Apple’s macOS 11:
Lack of support for 32-Bit apps
The absence of the 32-bit software functionality has proved a major turn-off for most Mac users, with some early adopters choosing to downgrade from Mac OS 11 just to continue using apps that are only available in 32-bit. It is a real dilemma for anyone running a 32-bit app, as you have to choose between giving it up and sticking with the OS you are currently using.
Compatibility issues
As expected, macOS is heavier and packed with CPU-resource-consuming features that need newer processors to run correctly. However, unlike recent updates such as High Sierra, which came out in 2017 and ran on machines from as early as 2009, Big Sur only runs on machines released in 2013 or later. There is no point mooning over the new operating system if your machine isn’t among the following:
- 2013 or newer Mac Pro
- 20-17 or newer iMac Pro
- 2014 or newer iMac
- 2014 or newer Mac mini
- 2015 or newer MacBook
- 2013 or newer MacBook Pro (Some MacBook Pro machines from early 2013 may not be compatible)
- 2013 or newer MacBook Air
Some programs bypass VPN
If you fancy encrypting your data using a VPN, macOS has found a way to circumvent that for some of their apps. The OS, unlike all its predecessors, won’t allow you to use the Kernel Extension to set up a VPN or firewall. This is because all of Apple’s applications do not strictly operate within the user’s control on macOS 11. This is a huge data privacy and security issue, especially for businesses that use Apple devices on their network.
Huge space requirements
Not only have people reported problems with downloading macOS 11, but the space requirements for installation are also proving an impediment for some users. To install the operating system, you need to have at least 35 GB of space on your SSD.
Issues with certificate checks
There have been concerns over how certificate checks are conducted on macOS 11. According to hacker Paul Jeffrey, the Apple server was down for most users when they tried to install the new OS, and programs started significantly slowly. This is because the system conducts a check every time you start a program to confirm the validity of the developer’s certificate.
Endnote
Without a doubt, macOS 11 has lived up to the hype, if you choose to focus on the pros. However, there are quite a few downsides that some users cannot afford to ignore. Hopefully, Apple corrects the above issues in upcoming updates to enhance the OS’s inclusivity.
