Do I need an OS Update or Upgrade?
Understanding the difference determines how much time you should set aside and what buttons you need to click.
- Update (Minor Release): A quick security patch or minor version bump within your current operating system (e.g., moving from version 14.6.1 to 14.7). Apple releases these roughly every month.
- Upgrade (Major Release): Moving to a brand-new yearly generation of macOS (e.g., moving from version 12.6.8 up to version 14.7). Apple releases these every autumn.
| Image of version update |
Image of upgrade |
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⚠️ Unsupported Systems: Apple only provides security patches for its three most recent major macOS versions. Older systems like macOS 12 (Monterey) are no longer supported by Apple. If your Mac is running Monterey, you must upgrade to a supported version to meet CIT compliance requirements.
Current Nudge Compliance Requirements
| If your computer uses... |
Your required version is... |
Update release date |
Update deadline |
| macOS 14 (Sonoma) |
14.8.5 |
24 Mar 2026 |
14 Apr 2026 |
| macOS 15 (Sequoia) |
15.7.5 |
24 Mar 2026 |
14 Apr 2026 |
| macOS 26 (Tahoe) |
26.4 |
24 Mar 2026 |
14 Apr 2026 |
How to Install Your Required OS Version
When the Nudge prompt appears on your screen, use the following sequence to safely complete your installation.
- Trigger the update tool (Immediate)
When Nudge prompts you, review the window to see if you need an update or upgrade, then click the blue Update Device button.
- Navigate System Settings (1 - 2 mins)
Nudge will automatically open your Mac's System Settings (or System Preferences on older versions) directly to the Software Update pane.
- Select the correct option (Critical Step)
Look closely at your software update options, as the interface can be tricky:
- If you only need an Update: Click Update Now.
- If you see BOTH an Update and Upgrade option:
- To Upgrade (major version), click the large Update Now button.
- To Update (minor patch only), look closely below the main text and click the smaller blue More Info... link to target the patch specifically.
- Authorize and install (40 - 50 mins)
Click Update Now or Upgrade Now to begin. If your Mac has Apple Silicon, you may be prompted to enter your administrator password to authorize the installation.
Key Things to Know
- Time Budget: Plan for roughly 20 minutes to download (depending on network speed) and an additional 20–30 minutes to install. Your computer will restart during this process.
- Persistent Reminders: As the CIT installation deadline approaches, the Nudge reminder window will pop up more frequently until the installation is complete.
- Presentation Safeguards: Nudge is smart enough not to interrupt you mid-task. It will never pop up or disrupt your screen if you have active Zoom, Microsoft Teams, PowerPoint, or Keynote windows open.
- Need Admin Rights? If your computer requires administrative privileges to approve the update, please refer to the guide on Using the Privileges app to gain temporary administrative rights.
Still Need Help?
Ask CIT! 📞 (585) 245-5588 | 📧 Email | 💬 Chat | 📝 Submit a Request and we'll be happy to assist you.