Apple releases 10.3.4 Update for both standard and Server versions of Mac OS X 10.3
Apple releases 10.3.4 Update for both standard and Server versions of Mac OS X 10.3
Originally posted, Wednesday, May 26
Late Wednesday, Apple released Mac OS X 10.3.4 Update and Mac OS X Server 10.3.4 Update via the Web and Software Update. ("Combined" updaters are also available for both OS X and OS X Server.)
[See the next article for first impressions and reader reports.]
Mac OS X 10.3.4 Update According to Apple's documentation, the 10.3.4 Update provides "enhanced functionality and improved reliability for Mac OS X v10.3 'Panther' and is recommended for all users." Key enhancements include:
- improved file sharing and directory services for Mac (AFP), UNIX (NFS), PPTP, and wireless networks
- improved OpenGL technology and updated ATI and NVIDIA graphics drivers
- improved disc burning and recording functionality
- iPods connected via USB 2.0 are now recognized by iTunes and iSync
- additional FireWire audio and USB device compatibility
- updated Address Book, Mail, Safari, Stickies, and QuickTime applications
- improved compatibility for third party applications
- previous standalone security updates
A full list of changes provided by Update 10.3.4, as well as installation precautions, can be found here.
Mac OS X Server 10.3.4 Update According to Apple's documentation, the Server 10.3.4 Update provides "enhanced functionality and improved reliability for Mac OS X Server v10.3 and is recommended for all systems." Key enhancements include:
- improved reliability and compatibility of NFS file services and network automounts
- enhanced Server Admin and Network Image Utility applications
- improved Open Directory scalability and replication reliability, Active Directory integration
- additional support for FireWire and USB devices
- improved compatibility for third party applications and devices
- previous standalone security updates
Update reminders As usual, we recommend the following procedure when applying a system Update:
- Make sure your hard drive is in good shape: Boot from the OS X Install CD and run Disk Utility's Repair Disk function (or use a third-pary drive utility such as DiskWarrior or TechTool Pro).
- When booted from the volume containing Mac OS X, run Disk Utility's Repair Disk Permissions function.
- Install the update.
- After rebooting, again run Repair Disk Permissions.
We've found that using this update procedure avoids many of the common problems reported by readers after each update to OS X.
Let us know your experiences with the update: Late-breakers@macfixit.com.
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