macOS is the current generation of operating systems running on all Apple Mac computers. In this book, we will explore the capabilities and tools it offers for system administration and support tasks. Although many features of the Mac's interface are covered, this book is not intended to explain all the basic aspects of the hardware and user interface, but rather the areas pertinent for a user acting as an administrator.
This book will walk you through the world of macOS from a system administration and support point of view. You will be able to take advantage of the resources macOS offers for a large variety of common administration tasks. In addition, you will be empowered to configure key services and perform essential troubleshooting. More importantly, you will have a good understanding of the macOS environment and its tools for system administration tasks. For this reason, most of the examples provided will be from an administrator's perspective. However, when relevant, a standard user's perspective is also presented. The examples and illustrations we show in this book are from a Mac running macOS 11 (Big Sur), and sometimes, when necessary, we refer to other macOS versions, such as macOS 10.15 (Catalina).
On the other hand, we are all aware of the incredible pace at which technology is changing today. In particular, Apple is implementing improvements and new technologies at a rapid pace, and this includes its operating systems, such as macOS, the subject of this book, and its Mac models, with the introduction of the M1 silicon chip, which will introduce significant changes as its implementation across models advances. In that respect, we have done our best to make this book useful for all the most recent macOS versions, and we will do our best to update and review any topics that are improved or changed over time. However, bear in mind that sometimes it is not possible to do this as soon as changes or improvements are implemented.
We will start by understanding how macOS is different from other leading operating systems, as well as exploring its main and most recent features. Then, we will move on to installing and configuring macOS, including the use of the recovery system. Next, we will examine the start up process. After that, we will learn how to manage users, including important information on user security and privacy. Following that, we will describe the filesystem to understand the logic behind it, including managing disks, volumes, and partitions. Next, we will cover ownership and permissions in macOS and how to manage them. Then, we will jump into managing system resources, apps, and documents, including backups with Time Machine. In the final part of the book, we will touch on more advanced topics, such as network configuration, network services, and sharing services. There is also a chapter dedicated to the tools available for securing the system. And, finally, we will look at examples of how to use the command-line tool for administration tasks. An Appendix that includes troubleshooting steps designed to help you solve various potential issues and common scenarios is also included.
