Maintaining government Mac systems requires balancing productivity with security and compliance. Unlike personal Macs where you control everything, government Macs operate within enterprise management frameworks. Here’s how to keep your government Mac running smoothly while working within agency policies.
Understand Your Management Environment
Government Macs are managed differently than personal computers:
Mobile Device Management (MDM)
Your Mac is enrolled in an MDM system (like Jamf, Mosyle, or Kandji) that:
- Enforces security configurations
- Pushes software updates
- Deploys approved applications
- Monitors compliance status
- Enables remote support
What This Means for Maintenance
Many maintenance tasks are automated or handled by IT:
- Security updates pushed automatically
- Required software deployed without user action
- Configuration settings enforced continuously
- Some user preferences managed centrally
Regular User Maintenance Tasks
Restart Your Mac Weekly
Regular restarts clear memory, apply pending updates, and resolve many issues:
- Apple menu > Restart
- Allow pending updates to install
- Don’t just close the lid—actually restart
Manage Storage Space
Keep at least 10% of your storage free:
- Apple menu > About This Mac > Storage
- Review what’s using space
- Empty Trash regularly
- Move old files to network storage
- Clear Downloads folder
Check for Available Updates
Even with MDM, verify updates are current:
- System Settings > General > Software Update
- Check Self Service for available software
- Install updates when available
Application Management
Using Self Service
Self Service is your portal for approved software:
- Install new applications
- Update existing software
- Run maintenance utilities
- Access IT resources
Removing Unused Applications
Reduce clutter and potential vulnerabilities:
- Review Applications folder periodically
- Request removal of unused software through IT
- Don’t manually delete MDM-deployed apps
Browser Maintenance
Clear Cache and History
Periodically clear browsing data:
- Safari: Safari > Clear History
- Edge: Settings > Privacy > Clear browsing data
- Chrome: Settings > Privacy > Clear browsing data
Manage Extensions
- Only use approved browser extensions
- Remove extensions you don’t use
- Keep extensions updated
Keychain Maintenance
Keychain stores your passwords and certificates:
Periodic Cleanup
- Open Keychain Access (Applications > Utilities)
- Look for expired certificates
- Remove old entries for services you no longer use
- Verify CAC certificates are current
Keychain Issues
If you experience authentication problems:
- Search Keychain for related entries
- Delete cached credentials
- Re-authenticate to the service
Backup Verification
Ensure your data is protected:
- Verify Time Machine backups are current (if enabled)
- Confirm OneDrive sync is working
- Check that important files are in approved locations
- Know your agency’s backup procedures
Performance Optimization
Manage Login Items
- System Settings > General > Login Items
- Review what opens at startup
- MDM may manage some login items
Monitor Activity Monitor
Check for resource-heavy processes:
- Open Activity Monitor (Applications > Utilities)
- Review CPU and Memory tabs
- Note any unusual processes
- Report suspicious activity to IT
What NOT to Do
Avoid These Actions
- Don’t unenroll from MDM
- Don’t disable security software
- Don’t install unauthorized software
- Don’t modify system files
- Don’t attempt to gain admin privileges
- Don’t bypass security controls
When in Doubt
Contact IT before taking actions you’re unsure about. It’s better to ask than to create problems.
When to Contact IT
Reach out to your help desk for:
- Performance issues that don’t resolve with restart
- Error messages you don’t understand
- Software that won’t install or update
- Hardware problems
- Security concerns
- Need for software not in Self Service
Maintaining Your Workspace
Physical Care
- Keep your Mac clean (Apple-approved cleaning only)
- Ensure adequate ventilation
- Use on stable surfaces
- Protect from liquids
Ergonomics
- Use external keyboard and mouse for desk work
- Position monitor at eye level
- Take breaks to prevent strain
Efficient government Mac maintenance combines your awareness with IT’s management capabilities. By handling user-level tasks appropriately and knowing when to engage IT support, you keep your Mac running smoothly while maintaining compliance with agency policies.
