If you updated to the newest version by mistake and want to revert:
If you are running an older version of macOS, the Mac App Store will automatically offer the last version of Apple Configurator 2 that is compatible with your operating system.
Steps:
Important: This only works if your Apple ID previously “purchased” (downloaded for free) the app. If not, the App Store will require you to update macOS to a version that supports the current release.
Apple does not publish version history. Some third-party sites (e.g., those tracking app version history) may host older .dmg or .pkg files. Exercise extreme caution with such downloads, as they may be outdated, incompatible, or modified with malware.
Risks include:
Administrators typically require older versions of Apple Configurator 2 for the following reasons:
Warning: Avoid downloading Apple Configurator 2 from third-party "mirror" sites. These files may be tampered with or contain malware. Always use the official Apple links provided above.
The only official and safe source for downloading older versions of Apple Configurator 2 is the Apple Support website. Apple maintains a legacy download page specifically for administrators who need to manage older Mac hardware or specific iOS versions.
Direct Link: Apple Configurator 2 Legacy Downloads
On this page, you will find download links for versions such as:
Strongly consider updating your workflow rather than downgrading Apple Configurator. If you absolutely must have an older version, your safest legal path is restoring from a personal backup.
Would you like help troubleshooting the specific issue that makes you want an older version? I can suggest modern workarounds.
Guide: Downloading Older Versions of Apple Configurator 2
Introduction
Apple Configurator 2 is a popular tool for managing and configuring Apple devices. While the latest version of Apple Configurator 2 is widely available, some users may need to download an older version for compatibility or other reasons. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to download older versions of Apple Configurator 2.
Method 1: Using the Apple Support Website
Method 2: Using the Mac App Store
Method 3: Using a Third-Party Website (Not Recommended)
Some third-party websites may host older versions of Apple Configurator 2. However, we strongly advise against using these websites, as they may bundle malware or other unwanted software with the download.
Troubleshooting
Conclusion
Downloading older versions of Apple Configurator 2 can be a bit tricky, but by following these steps, you should be able to find and download the version you need. Remember to always be cautious when downloading software from the internet, and prioritize using official channels like the Apple Support website or Mac App Store.
Downloading an older version of Apple Configurator 2 (AC2) typically requires using the Mac App Store's "purchased" history on the older device, as direct DMG downloads are not officially provided by Apple. Official Method: Mac App Store Workaround
If you have previously "purchased" (downloaded) Apple Configurator 2 using your Apple ID, the App Store can often serve the last compatible version for your current macOS. download older version of apple configurator 2
Check Purchase History: Open the App Store on your older Mac and navigate to your Account or Purchased tab.
Attempt Download: Find Apple Configurator 2 in the list and click the download (cloud) icon.
Accept Older Version: If your OS is unsupported by the current version, a prompt should appear asking: "Download an older version of Apple Configurator? The current version requires macOS [Version] or later, but you can download the last compatible version". Click Download. Workaround for First-Time Downloads
If you have never downloaded AC2 before, it will not appear in your purchase history, and the App Store may simply block the download on an older OS.
Use a Newer Mac: Log in to your Apple ID on a Mac running a newer, supported macOS (e.g., macOS Sonoma or Monterey).
"Purchase" the App: Download Apple Configurator 2 on that newer Mac to link it to your Apple ID.
Return to Older Mac: Go back to your older Mac, open the App Store > Purchased tab, and you should now be able to follow the "Official Method" above to get the compatible version. Version Compatibility Reference Previous Version of Apple Configurator
Downloading an older version of Apple Configurator 2 is possible, but since Apple doesn’t provide direct DMG links for legacy versions, you’ll need to use a specific workaround through the Mac App Store. The "Purchased History" Method
If you are running an older macOS (like High Sierra or Mojave) and the App Store tells you the current version is incompatible, follow these steps: "Purchase" the app on a newer Mac
: Log in to a Mac running a current macOS (e.g., macOS Sonoma or Ventura) using your Apple ID. Download the latest Apple Configurator 2. Access your older Mac : Open the on your older machine and sign in with the same Apple ID. Check your Account page : Click on your name or Apple Configurator 2 in the list and click the (cloud) icon. Accept the "Last Compatible" prompt
: A pop-up will appear saying the current version requires a newer macOS. It should then offer to download the "last compatible version" for your specific OS. Apple Support Community Recent Version Compatibility macOS 15.6+ : Required for the current Apple Configurator 2.19 macOS 14 (Sonoma) : Required for version 2.17. macOS 12.4 (Monterey) : Required for version 2.16. macOS 10.14 (Mojave)
: Last version to support Apple Configurator 2.10 and earlier. Unofficial Alternatives
The "Legacy Lifeline": A Review of Older Apple Configurator 2 Versions Rating: ★★★☆☆ (Utility: 5/5 | Accessibility: 1/5)
For many sysadmins and vintage tech enthusiasts, seeking an older version of Apple Configurator 2 isn't a choice—it’s a necessity. Whether you’re reviving a dead Apple Silicon Mac via DFU mode on an older MacBook Pro or managing a fleet of 3rd Gen Apple TVs that newer versions have unceremoniously dropped, the legacy software is often the only tool for the job. The Good: Why It’s Still Relevant
Hardware Compatibility: Older versions like AC 2.3 or 2.16 are vital for users stuck on macOS El Capitan, Mojave, or Monterey.
DFU Heroics: It remains the gold standard for "reviving" bricked Macs when the standard Finder options fail.
Mass Deployment: For small iPad collections in libraries or classrooms, it’s a free, functional alternative to expensive MDM (Mobile Device Management) solutions. The Bad: The "Apple Wall"
Hidden Downloads: Apple famously makes it difficult to find previous versions. The Mac App Store typically only serves the latest build (currently requiring macOS 14+), leaving users on older stable machines in the lurch.
The "Purchased" Trick: The most reliable way to get an older version is to have "purchased" it previously on your Apple ID; the App Store may then offer a compatible version for your current OS. If you didn't, you're often out of luck.
Quirky Performance: Even when you get it running, users report a "coarse" experience—long 13-step processes and frequent errors when reimaging devices on older hardware.
VerdictFinding a legacy version of Apple Configurator 2 feels like a digital scavenger hunt. While it’s an essential tool for maintaining older Apple hardware, the difficulty in actually downloading it highlights a frustrating gap in Apple's support for older operating systems. Previous Version of Apple Configurator
Apple Configurator 2 is an essential tool for IT administrators and school tech coordinators who need to deploy and manage large fleets of iOS, iPadOS, and tvOS devices. However, hardware limitations often create a "version gap." If you are running an older Mac that cannot upgrade to the latest macOS, you will find that the version of Apple Configurator available on the Mac App Store is incompatible with your system.
Finding and downloading an older version of Apple Configurator 2 requires a bit of maneuvering, as Apple does not provide a direct public archive of previous installers. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to safely acquire the version you need. Why You Might Need an Older Version
The most common reason for seeking an older build is operating system compatibility. Apple frequently updates Configurator to require the latest (or second-to-latest) version of macOS. For example: Apple Configurator 2.17 requires macOS 14.0 or later. Apple Configurator 2.15 requires macOS 12.4 or later. If you updated to the newest version by
Older machines stuck on macOS Big Sur or Catalina cannot run these latest releases. Method 1: The Mac App Store "Purchased" Tab (Recommended)
This is the safest and most official method. If you have previously "purchased" (even for free) Apple Configurator 2 using your Apple ID, the App Store allows you to download the last compatible version for your current OS. Open the App Store on the older Mac.
Sign in with the Apple ID used to download the app previously. Click on your Profile/Name in the bottom left corner. Locate Apple Configurator 2 in your list of purchased apps. Click the Cloud Download icon.
A prompt will appear: "Download an older version of Apple Configurator 2? The current version requires macOS [Version] or later, but you can download the last compatible version." Click Download. Method 2: Using Apple Business Manager or School Manager
If you are an administrator for an organization, you can "purchase" licenses in bulk through Apple Business Manager (ABM) or Apple School Manager (ASM). Log in to your ABM/ASM portal. Go to Apps and Books. Search for Apple Configurator. Assign licenses to your location.
Once the licenses are assigned to your managed Apple ID, follow the steps in Method 1 to trigger the "last compatible version" download on your specific hardware. Method 3: Apple’s More Downloads for Developers
For those with an Apple Developer account, Apple sometimes provides standalone installers for tools, though Configurator is primarily distributed via the App Store. Navigate to the Apple Developer Downloads page. Sign in with your Developer ID. Search for "Apple Configurator."
Check if any specific builds (like DMG files) are available for older macOS versions. Note that these are usually beta or specific "Command Line Tools" rather than the full GUI application. Important Security Warning
You may encounter third-party websites or "abandonware" archives offering .dmg files for older versions of Apple Configurator 2. Exercise extreme caution.
Security Risks: Unofficial installers can be bundled with malware or keyloggers.
Code Signing: macOS may block the installation of these files if the developer certificate has expired or been tampered with.
Verification: If you must use a third-party source, always verify the MD5 or SHA-256 checksum if available. Troubleshooting Compatibility Issues
If you manage to install an older version but it fails to recognize your devices, keep the following in mind:
iOS Compatibility: Older versions of Configurator 2 may not recognize devices running the newest versions of iOS (e.g., Configurator 2.12 might struggle with an iPhone running iOS 17).
Recovery Mode: Some older versions may lack the "Revive" or "Restore" firmware features necessary for Apple Silicon Macs.
Manual IPSW: You can often bypass Configurator's internal download errors by manually downloading the correct .ipsw firmware file and dragging it onto the device icon within the app. What model of Mac are you using?
Are you trying to manage older devices or brand new hardware?
To download an older version of Apple Configurator 2, you must Mac App Store's "Purchased" history feature
. Apple does not provide official standalone installers for legacy versions on their website. Apple Support Community Standard Download Method
The Mac App Store typically offers the "last compatible version" only if you have previously "purchased" (downloaded) the app with your Apple ID. Experts Exchange Open the App Store on your older Mac.
with the Apple ID used to originally download Apple Configurator 2. Navigate to your Apple Configurator 2 and click the download icon. If compatible, a prompt will appear:
"Download an older version of Apple Configurator? The current version requires macOS [X.X] or later, but you can download the last compatible version" Apple Support Community Workaround for New Users
If you have never "purchased" Apple Configurator 2 before, the App Store will simply block the download on an older OS. You can bypass this by: Spiceworks Community Borrowing a newer Mac : Log in to your Apple ID on a Mac that compatible with the latest version of Apple Configurator 2. "Purchase" the app
: Click "Get" or "Install" to add it to your account's purchase history. Return to your old Mac If you are running an older version of
: Go back to your Purchased tab; you should now be offered the legacy version. Spiceworks Community Compatibility Reference Apple Configurator Version Required macOS Version macOS 15.6 or later macOS 14.0 or later macOS 12.4 (Last version for Monterey) macOS 10.13 High Sierra OS X 10.11 El Capitan Note on Unofficial Sources : While some third-party sites or forums host files for older versions, these are not authorized by Apple
and may pose security risks. If your Mac is too old to support a version capable of "Revive" or "Restore" functions, Apple recommends visiting an Apple Authorized Service Provider Apple Discussions exact version number compatible with your specific macOS build? Apple Configurator: Where to download older versions?
To download an older version of Apple Configurator, you must use the Mac App Store on your legacy device. Apple does not provide official standalone .dmg or .pkg installers for previous versions; instead, they utilize a "compatibility download" feature triggered by your account's purchase history. 🛠️ The "Last Compatible Version" Method
This is the most reliable way to get a version that works with your specific macOS. Add to Purchase History:
Log in to the Mac App Store on a modern Mac running the latest macOS.
Search for "Apple Configurator" and click Get or the download icon.
Once the download starts, you can cancel it. The app is now linked to your Apple ID. Switch to the Legacy Mac:
Open the App Store on your older Mac and sign in with the same Apple ID. Go to your Account/Purchased section. Find Apple Configurator and click the Install/Cloud icon. Confirm the Prompt:
A pop-up will appear stating that the current version requires a newer macOS.
It will ask: "Download the last compatible version?" Select Download. 📋 Compatibility Guide The version you receive depends on your current macOS: macOS Version Max Compatible Configurator Version macOS 15.6+ 2.19 (Latest) macOS 14.x macOS 12.4 - 13.x macOS 10.14 - 11.x macOS 10.13 macOS 10.11 ⚠️ Important Limitations
Feature Availability: Older versions may not support newer hardware (like M3/M4 Macs) or modern iOS features (like skipping specific Setup Assistant panes).
Third-Party Links: Avoid unofficial sites claiming to host .dmg files. These are often unauthorized and can contain malware.
Device Enrollment: If you are trying to enroll devices in an MDM (Mobile Device Management), very old versions (pre-2.13) may struggle with modern Apple Business Manager protocols.
If you need a specific version for security research or legacy hardware and the App Store method fails, your best option is to restore it from an old Time Machine backup if you have previously installed it on that machine. To help you find the right version, could you tell me: What macOS version are you currently running? What is the model of the Mac you're using?
What task are you trying to perform (e.g., reviving a bricked Mac, managing iPads)? Previous Version of Apple Configurator
If you're stuck with an older Mac that can't run the latest version of Apple Configurator , you aren't completely out of luck. While the Mac App Store
usually defaults to the newest version—currently requiring macOS 15.6
or later for version 2.19—you can still grab legacy versions using a specific workaround. How to Get the Last Compatible Version
Apple allows you to download older versions of apps only if they are already in your Purchase History
. If you've never "purchased" it on your account, the App Store will simply tell you it's incompatible. "Purchase" it on a newer Mac: Log into the Mac App Store on a Mac that
compatible with the current version. "Get" or "Install" Apple Configurator so it's tied to your Apple ID. Switch to your older Mac: Open the App Store and go to your Account/Purchased Download from History:
Click the download (cloud) icon next to Apple Configurator. A prompt should appear: "Do you want to download the last compatible version?"
to install the version compatible with your current OS (e.g., version 2.7.1 for High Sierra). Common Compatibility Snapshots Apple Configurator Version Required macOS Version macOS 15.6 or later macOS Sonoma 14.0 or later macOS Monterey 12.4 or later macOS Mojave 10.14 macOS High Sierra 10.13 Alternative Methods (Use Caution) Requirements for Apple Configurator for Mac
Here is the text and information required to download older versions of Apple Configurator 2.