macOS for IT Administrators

Effectively work with macOS systems as an IT admin. Review the fundamentals of how the macOS works and how it interacts with management tools, networks, and server systems.

Introduction

• Airdropped into macOS
• What you should know
• Philosophy of macOS administration

1. Fundamental macOS Concepts

• The many layers of macOS
• Multi-domain system admin
• Kernel extensions and system extensions
• What is a plist file?
• The startup process
• Modifying the startup process
• Using Safe Mode
• Backing up
• Installing macOS
• Creating an OS install device

2. Directory Services

• Local users and groups
• How Kerberos works
• Accessing Kerberized services
• Enterprise network integration with SSO
• Administer apps in the enterprise

3. Tips, Tricks, and Troubleshooting

• Sidecar
• Key commands and shortcuts
• Network ports you need to know
• Reading and collecting logs
• Printer administration
• Administer gatekeeper
• Accessing filesharing
• Troubleshooting file sharing connections

4. Remote Administration

• Local and remote administration
• Use SSH to admin a Mac
• Use ARD or VNC to admin a Mac
• Understand MDM
• Work with MDM
• Creating profiles
• Deploying profiles
• Control caching on your network
• How caching works
• Cache server advanced administration

5. Advanced Administration

• Using the defaults system
• Creating your script
• FileVault administration
• Changes in Catalina

Conclusion

• Next steps