How do I tell the difference, heck, what is the difference?
We're glad you asked!
If you're just beginning your journey as a Mac admin, it may be confusing to understand how updates and upgrades differ. This may also be the first time you have to deal with both, nonetheless, we're here to back you up!
What is a System Update?
A System Update is classified as any minor OS change and can also include security/browser patches. For example, if you're on macOS Big Sur (11.1), the latest update would be macOS Big Sur (11.5.2).
You can push System Updates via Addigy by going to the Updates section of a policy and selecting the System Updates tab. There you will find needed updates or a list of all available updates.
These updates can also be deployed to an individual device via GoLive. For more information on this and more, please reference our overview article on System Updates via MDM and DDM.
What is a System Upgrade?
A system upgrade is any major OS change. An example of an OS change would be upgrading from macOS 12 (Monterey) to macOS 14 (Sonoma). There are two primary ways you can upgrade devices via Addigy.
System Updates via MDM/DDM
On top of regular updates, System Updates via MDM/DDM can also upgrade devices.
Note: Upgrades via MDM (not DDM) will automatically use the Default install option. This means that the 60-second timer will show before the upgrade is applied. More information on this prompt and how to setup MDM/DDM updates can be read here: System Updates via MDM and DDM.
Install macOS Public Software Items
We also offer the .app installers made by Apple in the form of Public Software items. These upgrades will deploy the .app itself to these devices, which can range from ~10-12GB, so it's good to be cognizant of device storage space when deploying.
For more information on these installers as well as deployment steps, please refer to this guide:
Install macOS Public Software Overview
Note: If you would ever like to block these upgrades, read here: https://support.addigy.com/hc/en-us/articles/4403542361747-Blocking-Major-macOS-Upgrades-with-Addigy