Managed Updates on Macs - IT Help Desk

Managed Updates in MacOS

Apple periodically releases updates to MacOS to fix bugs, security vulnerabilities, and provide enhancements. An update is a newer version of the currently installed operating system, such as an update from Sequoia 15.1 to Sequoia 15.2, or Sonoma 14.7.1 to 14.7.2. To keep Reed Macs up-to-date and secure, IT is making updates more prominent and requiring them to be installed within 15 days of being released by Apple.

Update Prompts

Shortly after Apple releases an OS update, Reed Macs will see the prompt below to install the update. If now is not a good time to restart and install the update, click the "Defer" button. Up to 5 deferrals are allowed.

Update Required

Three days later, you will be prompted again. When you are ready to install the update, click "Restart". When the maximum number of deferrals is reached, you are prompted to restart immediately. Newer Macs with Apple Silicon will be prompted to type in the computer password of the current user.

Save your files before entering your password and clicking "Restart".

The computer will restart within a minute and then install the update. Your computer will never restart without you clicking the Restart button.

FAQs

**What's the difference between an OS update and an OS upgrade?**

An update is a newer version of the currently installed operating system. For example, going from Sequoia 15.1 to Sequoia 15.2, or Sonoma 14.7.1 to 14.7.2. Updates generally fix security vulnerabilities and bugs. An upgrade is a major version change to the operating system, such as upgrading from Mac OS Sonoma (14) to Mac OS Sequoia (15). After an upgrade, the system will often have a different look and feel, in addition to new features.

Will I be forced to upgrade to the next major OS version?

No. At this time, the process is being used to enforce OS updates only, making sure Reed Macs are staying up-to-date with the latest security patches.

Will my computer be forced to restart without prompting me?

No. As long as you are logged in, your computer will not restart until you click the Restart button. Once the maximum number of deferrals is reached, the dialog will not go away until you log out or restart. The computer will not restart without user input. If you log out or restart the computer, the pending updates will be installed automatically.

Can I still update the traditional way through System Settings/System Preferences?

Yes. Although you will not receive the traditional update notifications from System Settings, you can still initiate the updates from there.