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macOS Updates via Nudge

This article applies to: Endpoint Management Tools


Nudge is an application to notify end users about macOS security updates they should install. Cornell IT Security Policy 5.10 requires all devices to be fully up to date with security updates within 30 days of release. 

When a new security update is released, users of macOS devices will periodically receive a popup notification. Notifications will not pop up and take focus while a webcam is in use, or while sharing your screen via an application such as Teams or Zoom. 

To apply an update when you receive this notification, click Update Device.

To defer the update for now, click Defer, then select one of the options presented. CIT recommends that you install updates as soon as possible.

  • You can defer an update for up to 30 days. The frequency of these notifications will increase over time.
  • After 30 days (as specified by Policy 5.10) the notification can no longer be dismissed, and you must install the updates.

After clicking Update Device, you will see a Software Update dialog box like one of the two shown below.

The Software Update dialog box includes the text "Updates are available for your Mac," followed by a list of updates and a button reading either Update Now or Restart Now.

If the dialog box text begins with Updates are available for your Mac, and the button next to that text says either Update Now or Restart Now (the button could have either text), click that button to apply the update. Follow any screen prompts and you're done.

This Software Update dialog box shows the version name and number of a macOS (such as "macOS Monterey, 12.0.1) and a button labeled Upgrade Now.

If the dialog box starts by listing your macOS version and the button text reads Upgrade Now, do not click it.

This is informing you that, in addition to a security update, an upgrade to your macOS is available. Upgrades are major releases and should only be applied after checking with your local IT support group.

Instead, when you see this dialog box, click More info.

The next dialog box will list the updates available to you.

Click Install Now or Restart Now (the button to click could have either text). Follow any screen prompts and you're done.

New with macOS 13.1 update: If you are prompted for an admin account login after clicking install, please authenticate with your netid and password.

About this Article

Last updated: 

Wednesday, December 14, 2022 - 12:59pm

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