Using a Mac at Questrom
Macs work with many of the applications and services used at Questrom. When coursework requires Windows-specific software or features, BU and Questrom provide several ways to access the tools you need.
START HERE
Your Mac Can Handle Most Everyday Work
Many commonly used BU applications are available for macOS, accessible through a web browser, or available remotely. Before looking for a Windows solution, start by checking how the software you need is provided through BU.
Use the Mac Version
Many commonly used applications have native macOS versions, including Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Cloud. Check BU’s software resources for current availability and eligibility.
Work in Your Browser
Many BU services and applications can be accessed through a web browser, reducing the need to install additional software on your Mac.
Need Windows Software?
Some specialized applications, course requirements, or features may require Windows. You can often access them remotely without installing Windows on your Mac.
WINDOWS SOFTWARE
Access Windows Without Replacing Your Mac
If an application or course requires Windows, check the available virtual and on-campus options before installing another operating system on your Mac.
Access Windows Remotely
Virtual computing lets you run Windows applications from your Mac while the software itself runs in a remote Windows environment.
Questrom Dizzion Frame
Questrom’s virtual computing environment provides remote access to selected applications and resources for eligible courses and users.
BU Common
BU Common provides students, faculty, and staff with a virtual Windows environment. From a Mac, you can access individual Windows applications or a full Windows desktop.
Use an On-Campus Computer
If the software you need is available in a Questrom computer lab, using an on-campus workstation may be the simplest option—especially for occasional Windows-only coursework.
Check your course requirements first. Your instructor may specify a particular application, version, add-in, or computing environment. Use the option recommended for your course when specific requirements apply.
MICROSOFT 365
Mac and Windows Versions Can Differ
Microsoft Office is available through BU, including applications for Mac. However, the Mac and Windows versions aren’t identical, and some specialized features or course workflows may depend on Windows. BU currently provides Microsoft Office at no charge to eligible students, faculty, and staff.
Everyday Office Work
Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and standard Excel tasks can generally be completed using the Mac versions of Microsoft Office.
Excel Features & Add-ins
Some advanced Excel functionality, add-ins, or course-specific workflows may differ between Mac and Windows. Check your course requirements before assuming the Mac version provides everything you need.
Windows-Only Microsoft Applications
Some Microsoft applications are Windows-specific. BU Common currently includes Windows applications such as Access, Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Power BI Desktop, and other software.
When Your Course Requires Windows
Use the Windows environment recommended for your course. Depending on the application, this may be Dizzion Frame, BU Common, or a Questrom computer lab.
SOFTWARE COMPATIBILITY
Start with the Simplest Option
You don’t necessarily need to change anything about your Mac when you encounter a Windows application. Work through these options in order.
01
Check for a Mac Version
Search BU’s software resources to see whether the application has a macOS version or browser-based option available to you.
02
Check Your Course Requirements
If the software is required for coursework, confirm whether your instructor requires a specific version, feature, add-in, or operating system.
03
Check Remote Access
If Windows is required, check whether the application is available through Questrom Nutanix Frame or BU Common.
04
Use a Questrom Computer
If remote access isn’t appropriate or the software is available locally, use a Questrom computer lab or designated workstation.
WINDOWS ON MAC
Installing Windows Locally
Some Macs can run Windows locally, but the available options depend on your Mac’s processor. Before configuring a separate Windows environment, check whether the software you need is already available through Questrom or BU’s remote computing services.
INTEL MAC
Windows with Boot Camp
Apple provides Boot Camp Assistant for compatible Intel-based Macs. Boot Camp creates a separate Windows partition, allowing you to start your Mac in either macOS or Windows.
Apple’s current Boot Camp documentation covers installing Windows 10 and the required Windows support software on supported Intel-based Macs.
APPLE SILICON
Use Virtual or Remote Windows
Apple’s Boot Camp documentation applies to Intel-based Macs. Macs with Apple silicon use different approaches when Windows software is required.
For Questrom coursework, first check whether the software you need is available through Dizzion Frame, BU Common, or a Questrom computer lab before configuring your own virtual Windows environment.
Before purchasing Windows or virtualization software: check whether the application you need is already available through BU MyApps, BU Common, Nutanix Frame, or a Questrom computer lab.
MACOS SUPPORT
Keep Your Mac Current
Keeping macOS and your applications current improves compatibility, security, and your ability to receive technical support.
Keep macOS Updated
Install current macOS security and system updates. BU fully supports its two most recent major macOS releases and provides limited support for releases that are still receiving security updates.
Check Compatibility Before Upgrading
If you rely on specialized software for a course or research project, confirm that it supports a new macOS release before performing a major operating-system upgrade.
Protect University Data
Computers used with Confidential or Restricted Use information must meet BU’s current operating-system security requirements.
Last content review: August 24, 2026
COMMON QUESTIONS
Quick Answers
Can I run Windows software from my Mac?
Yes. BU Common provides a virtual Windows environment accessible from macOS and can provide individual Windows applications or a full Windows desktop.
How do I access BU Common from a Mac?
Install Microsoft’s Windows App for macOS, add your BU workspace, and sign in using your BU credentials. Duo authentication may also be required.
Is Excel the same on Mac and Windows?
Not completely. Some features, add-ins, and specialized workflows can differ between versions. Follow your instructor’s requirements when a course relies on specific Excel functionality.
What if my course requires software that doesn't run on my Mac?
Check the course requirements and then look for the application in Nutanix Frame, BU Common, or Questrom computer labs. Contact Questrom Tech if you’re unsure which option to use.
Need Help Using Your Mac at Questrom?
If you're unsure whether an application works on your Mac, need help finding a Windows version or remote alternative, or aren't sure which computing option your course requires, Questrom Tech can help you identify the right solution.
Get IT Support
questromhelp@bu.edu
Visit The Helpdesk
617-353-9858
Mon – Thurs: 8am – 6pm
Friday: 8am – 5pm