Apple devices for UTC departments and employees must be purchased through our eCommerce site and set up by Central IT for proper configuration and Mobile Device Management (MDM) enrollment. MDM enables secure management, including remote locking, wiping, and password resets, while also allowing us to bypass personal Apple ID restrictions if needed.
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Apple IDs for Faculty/Staff Computers
Use Self Service (UTC-Supported)
Faculty and staff should utilize Self Service to install all UTC-licensed software and applications. The UT Microsoft 365 platform (Outlook, OneDrive, etc) is the recommended solution for employees to store UTC related files and accessing emails. Review the UT Acceptable Use Policy for policy on storing information related to the university. Any files stored outside a UTC approved solution may not be able to be recovered in the event that an issue arises with your device or account.
Personal Apple IDs (Not Recommended)
While it is not recommended, faculty and staff may use a personal Apple ID on university-owned Macs, including iMacs, Mac Minis, and MacBooks. However, any UTC related information should never be stored in iCloud or any other non-UTC-supported cloud storage. Additionally, if IT assistance is required, data associated with a personal Apple ID may be indexed and visible to IT staff through management tools used for troubleshooting.
Risks & Considerations
Using a personal Apple ID on a university device can lead to potential issues such as account lockouts, data access concerns, and application licensing conflicts. Users should also be mindful when syncing personal data on UTC machines, as it could lead to unintended data exposure. Before utilizing a personal Apple ID, review the UT Acceptable Use Policy for computer equipment.
Apple IDs for Faculty/Staff iPads
Installing applications from the App Store may require an Apple ID, and a linked credit card is necessary for paid apps.
Free applications: faculty and staff should submit a support ticket before creating an Apple ID. Many free apps can be installed through the Company Portal, eliminating the need for an Apple ID altogether.
Paid applications, if an Apple ID with a credit card is required, it is best to use a departmental email rather than a personal one. This prevents personal information from being tied to the account and allows for easier management if the device is later assigned to a different user.
Apple IDs for iPhones
iPhones are managed differently from other university devices.
To purchase an iPhone, faculty and staff must contact Central IT, as these devices are only available under approved circumstances. While cellular data access is managed through SIM cards; our Telecomm department oversees the billing and deployment. iPhones are not yet enrolled in the university’s MDM system.
If an Apple ID and payment method are required for initial setup, a departmental email and a university P-Card should be used instead of personal credentials. Additionally, the Department Head and Administrator should be informed of both the purchase and setup process.
Additional Support
Open an IT Helpdesk request ticket.
Send an email to ITHelp@utc.edu.
Contact the IT Help Desk at 423-425-4000 or visit our IT Chat Portal.
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