How do I manage macOS updates?

What Is a macOS update?

A macOS update refers to a software package released by Apple that delivers bug fixes, security patches, performance enhancements, and sometimes new features to existing versions of the operating system. These updates are typically released on a regular basis, with major updates occurring annually (macOS Sequoia, for example) and minor updates addressing specific issues or vulnerabilities released between those major ones.

Typically, macOS updates fall into two categories:

• Security Updates: These priority updates address known vulnerabilities in the operating system and associated software. Installing them promptly is crucial to maintain system security and prevent potential breaches.
• Feature Updates: These introduce new functionality, enhance existing features, and optimize overall system performance. While not essential for basic functionality, they can improve user experience and productivity.

Why Are macOS Updates Important?

Timely updates are crucial for both IT admins and end-users for several reasons.

• Enhanced security: As mentioned earlier, security updates patch critical vulnerabilities in the operating system and related software. Installing them promptly protects users from malware, exploits, and unauthorized access attempts.
• Improved Stability and Performance: Updates often address bugs that can cause instability, glitches, and performance issues. With each update, users experience a smoother and more efficient Mac experience.
• New Features: Feature updates provide valuable functionalities that can improve user productivity and streamline workflows.
• Compatibility: Updates can ensure compatibility with newer hardware, peripherals, and applications, reducing compatibility issues and potential disruptions.
• Reduced IT Support Requirements: Promptly deployed updates can significantly reduce the number of support tickets related to bugs, security vulnerabilities, and compatibility issues, freeing up IT staff to address other critical matters.

Managing macOS Updates with MDM

An MDM solution offers IT teams a centralized and efficient way to manage operating system updates across their Mac fleet. Using their favored MDM solution, IT teams can:

• Create Software Update Policies: Define specific update rules for different user groups or devices. You might, for example, create a test group that gets feature updates immediately, delaying deployment to the organization as a whole.
• Schedule Updates: To minimize downtime, you can use MDM to download updates in advance but then install them during off-hours.
• Install Updates: Deploy updates to specific devices or groups on a controlled schedule, ensuring a smooth and coordinated update process.
• Monitor Update Status: Track the progress of updates across all devices, providing valuable insight into deployment success.
• Enforce Updates: For critical security updates, you can require their installation on devices, ensuring swift patching of vulnerabilities.

Best Practices for Managing macOS Updates

Developing a comprehensive macOS update management strategy helps IT admins ensure a secure, stable, and productive environment for end users.

• Develop a Policy: Define clear guidelines for which updates to deploy (security vs. feature updates) and the timeframe for rollout. When creating the policy, consider factors such as security risk, compatibility testing, and user impact.
• Testing: Before deploying updates to a large user base, test them on a representative sample of devices to identify potential compatibility issues with software or hardware.
• Communication: Let users know when you’re about to deploy updates, especially major ones, highlighting both their benefits and their potential impact.
• Monitor Update Status: Utilize your MDM solution to monitor the deployment and identify any failed installations.

OS Update vs. OS Upgrade

When communicating and thinking about macOS updates, It's important to distinguish between updates and upgrades:

OS Update

As previously discussed, updates are software packages within the existing major version of the operating system (in other words, macOS Sonoma has been updated many times). They typically encompass bug fixes, security patches, and performance enhancements. Updates are usually small in size and have minimal impact on system configuration or user settings.

OS Upgrade

An OS upgrade is a move from one major version to the next. It usuall means significant changes to the operating system's core functionality— introducing new features, a revamped user interface, and potentially underlying architecture changes. Upgrades can be larger in size and may require adjustments to user settings, software compatibility testing, and potentially additional training or resources for end-users.