macOS Update Enforcement Policy
To improve security and protect institutional LITS requires that all faculty and staff workstations are remain up to date with the latest, most secure operating system.
Our organization uses Nudge to ensure Macs remain secure and compliant in a timely manner.
Update urgency is based on the number and severity of CVEs (Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures) addressed in each macOS release.
Applying updates quickly helps protect your device and the campus network from security vulnerabilities.
Most updates take 30–90 minutes, depending on your computer and internet speed.
Update Prompts
When a new update is released, you’ll have 1 week to update before update prompts begin. Once one week has elapsed, your Mac will automatically prompt you to install updates. You can choose to install the update when prompted, or you can defer.
At any time once the upgrade is available, you can manually initiate the upgrade. It can take between 30-90 minutes, but may take more or less time depending on the speed of your computer, network connection and how far behind you are now. Upgrading while on campus may be faster due to the increased network download speed. You do not need to remain focused on the installation once started; you can start it in the evening or on a weekend to avoid downtime and return to an upgraded machine at your convenience.
Upgrading
Manually Upgrading
You can manually start the upgrade through the System Settings app anytime its available.
Open the System Settings app and, under the General tab, click Software Update.
When Software Update opens, it automatically checks for new software. If new software is available for your Mac, click the Update, Upgrade, or Restart Now button to install it.
If no new software is available for your Mac, Software Update says that your Mac is up to date. To check again, click Check for Update, press Command-R on your keyboard, or close and reopen Software Update.
Before installation begins, you’re asked to enter your administrator password. You’ll need to promote yourself to administrator through Jamf Connect
Allow installation to complete without putting your Mac to sleep or closing its lid. During installation, your Mac might restart and show a progress bar or blank screen several times.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens If I Do Not Update?
You will keep being prompted to update until you’re mac is up to date.
Will I lose any of my files, data, or installed apps?
You should not lose any files or apps; the OS upgrade will update your Mac to the latest version of macOS without erasing any existing files. With that said, it is recommended to back up any important data regularly and before any major upgrades as a precaution.
Will my apps continue to work?
Most applications will continue to function normally. If you rely on specialized software and have concerns, please contact LITS Support prior to updating for questions.
Why are we being prompted to update more regularly?
Some updates address serious security vulnerabilities. Delaying those updates increases risk to your device, institutional data, and the campus network
How long does installation take?
Typically 30–90 minutes. The device will restart during installation.
What if I’m presenting or traveling?
Please update before travel or major presentations whenever possible. We’ve tried to make the prompts be as minimally intrusive as possible so you will not be prompted when your camera is active, you’re screen sharing, in apps like Teams, or Zoom, in focus mode, or already updating your OS. If you have an urgent situation, contact IT Support before your deadline.
Need Assistance?
If you experience issues:
Restart your Mac and try again
Ensure sufficient disk space, Apple typically recommends between 25 GB and 44 GB for major upgrades (ex. 14.x → 15.x) and 10 GB-15 GB for minor updates (ex. 14.3 → 14.4)