I'm figuring you are referring to enabling the users to log in to any mac with their network credentials. Yes, this is possible with tools like Jamf Connect, Xcreds, or PSSO, speak to your IT team. These tools require a MDM, and an IDP to hook to so your IT team needs to be involved.

If you are referring to hosting the macs in the cloud, that is also possible with services like Mac Stadium and Amazon EC2.

They are using Google SSO to login which works well but this is creating a local login per machine which means if they want to use a new machine they have to go through the whole faff again. 
 

Would Mac Stadium or EC2 allow them to use any machine seamlessly?

Hi Mark,

Yes – this is a common scenario in school IT setups, and the good news is that you don’t necessarily need students tied to a single machine. You have a few options depending on your budget and how much control you want:

1. Cloud Storage / Profiles

   • Using solutions like Google Drive, OneDrive, or Dropbox, students can save all their work in the cloud. That way, no matter which Mac they log in to, their files are available.

   • This is the simplest option if you only need file access.

2. Managed Profiles / Mobile Accounts

   • With Apple School Manager or an MDM (Mobile Device Management) solution like Jamf or Mosyle, you can create user accounts that sync settings and files. Students can log in to any Mac and access their personalized environment.

3. Full Cloud Desktops / Virtual Desktops

   • A more advanced option is using VDI (Virtual Desktop Infrastructure) or cloud desktops such as Azure Virtual Desktop, AWS WorkSpaces, or even Google’s offerings. This lets each student access the same desktop from any device, but it comes with added cost and setup complexity.

Are you able to help me understand option 2 a little more?

We are using Jamf on the Macs and storing files in GDrive. We do need some programmes to remain logged in though, will that be a problem?