Setting Up Your University Mac (Automated Setup)

This article will guide you through setting up your new University of Idaho Mac using our automated process.

Overview

University Macs are set up automatically using a process called Automated Device Enrollment. This means your Mac will connect to the university system and set itself up with the right settings and software.

This article covers:

• What You Need Before You Start

• Step-by-Step Setup Instructions

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What You Need Before You Start

To set up your Mac correctly, make sure you:

• Have an internet connection (either Wi-Fi or Ethernet)

• Are connected to power

Important Wi-Fi Notes

• Do NOT use AirVandalGold or EduRoam during setup

• If you're using Wi-Fi, connect to AirVandalGuest

• Ethernet (plug-in connection) is preferred if available

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Step-by-Step Setup Instructions

1. Power On and Start Setup

• Plug in the Mac and turn it on

• Follow the on-screen prompts until you reach the Network screen

2. Connect to the Internet

• If using Wi-Fi:

  • Connect to AirVandalGuest

  • Click here for AirVandalGuest Wi-Fi help

• If using Ethernet:

  • It should connect automatically

⚠️ Do not use AirVandalGold or EduRoam yet.

Click Continue once connected.

3. Remote Management

• When you see the Remote Management screen, click Enroll

• 

❗If you don’t see this screen, your Mac may not be registered properly. Contact IT support.

4. University Welcome and Sign-In

• You’ll see a University of Idaho Welcome screen. Click Continue

• 

• Next, sign in using your U of I NetID (EntraID) and password

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5. Initial Setup Tasks

• Your Mac will do some background setup—this may take a few minutes

6. Create Your Local Account

• The name fields will be filled in automatically

• Choose a password for the computer (use your NetID password if you like)

• 

• Pick a profile picture

7. Final Setup Steps

You’ll now be prompted to:

• Set your Time Zone

• Enable Touch ID or Face ID (if your Mac supports it)

• Choose Light Mode or Dark Mode

After this, your Mac’s desktop will appear.

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8. Let Setup Finish

You’ll see a full-screen message saying that apps and settings are being installed.

Wait until you see a message saying the setup is complete.

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Important Final Step

If you connected to AirVandalGuest during setup, switch to AirVandalGold or another long-term network once setup is finished.