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5 Best Mac Patch Management Software Solutions for 2025

5 Best Mac Patch Management Software Solutions for 2025: 1. Level 2. Jamf Pro 3. Addigy 4. Action1 5. Kandji.

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Tuesday, March 4, 2025

5 Best Mac Patch Management Software Solutions for 2025

If your IT environment includes Mac devices, you should keep them up to date. Unpatched systems create security gaps that cybercriminals exploit, which may lead to data breaches, ransomware attacks, and compliance violations.

However, relying on manual patching is inefficient and prone to errors, especially if you own MacOS (operating system) devices across different locations.

This is where Mac patch management software comes in. It can automatically scan systems for missing patches and deploy software updates to reduce security vulnerabilities.

In this article, we'll cover the best patch management tools for Mac systems. We'll also share tips to help you choose the right solution and maximize its features.

What Is Mac Patch Management?

Mac patch management is the process of updating Mac devices to fix security vulnerabilities, improve performance, and maintain system stability. It involves deploying patches for the Mac operating system, firmware, and built-in applications.

It also includes tracking the patch status, verifying successful installations, and troubleshooting failed updates.

Without effective patch management, outdated MacOS devices can expose businesses to cyber threats, software bugs, and compliance risks. A structured approach keeps systems secure and running smoothly.

Why Is MacOS Patch Management Software Important?

Manual patching is time-consuming and prone to errors. Missing even one update can leave Mac operating systems vulnerable to cyber threats.

MacOS patch management software simplifies the process by automating patch deployment. Here are reasons why you should use digital software for patching Mac devices:

Improve Security

Cyber threats evolve quickly. Hackers target outdated MacOS systems with malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks. Applying timely updates is the best way to protect endpoints and prevent breaches.

Mac patch management software strengthens your IT environment's security posture by ensuring Mac devices receive security patches as soon as they become available. It closes security gaps that hackers can exploit.

Enhance System Stability and Performance

Unpatched Mac systems often experience performance issues, software crashes, and unexpected downtime. Bugs in outdated software can also cause compatibility problems with applications and network services.

Digital software includes automated patch management features. It can automatically deploy updates without disrupting workflows. This guarantees that all devices are optimized to run smoothly, which can significantly reduce system failures.

Maintain Compliance

Many industries have strict security regulations that require companies to keep their systems updated. Non-compliance can lead to penalties, legal risks, and reputational damage.

Mac patch management software helps IT teams and managed service providers (MSPs) stay compliant. It can enforce policies, generate audit reports, and prove that security standards are met.

It can also apply critical security patches on time, which helps businesses avoid regulatory fines and legal implications.

Reduce IT Workload

Keeping MacOS devices up to date is not as simple as clicking "Install." IT teams and MSPs should track updates, test them for compatibility, and deploy them across multiple devices.

Patch management software reduces manual workload by automating updates and providing a centralized dashboard for monitoring patch statuses. It allows IT employees to focus on strategic tasks.

5 Best MacOS Patch Management Software

Below is a list of the best Mac patch management software solutions:

1. Level

Level RMM software

Level is a modern remote monitoring and management (RMM) platform that helps IT teams and MSPs patch Mac devices in real time.

It features automated patch management tools that can instantly schedule and enforce updates across Mac endpoints. It reduces the need for manual oversight, which frees your IT department for more valuable tasks.

Level can also notify the relevant teams when updates fail and suggest actions. This allows you to act quickly and close security gaps.

Plus, Level offers extensive monitoring capabilities. It can closely track each endpoint's health to guarantee peak performance and instant issue resolution.

On top of these benefits, Level exceeds privacy and security regulatory requirements. It uses end-to-end encryption, custom access controls, and other security measures to keep your Apple ecosystem secure and compliant.

Start a free trial of Level today!

2. Jamf Pro

Jamf Pro
Source: Jamf.com

Jamf Pro is an Apple device management solution that can automate MacOS updates. It makes sure that security patches and system upgrades are deployed without delays.

This software also allows IT professionals to manage device settings and restrict malicious software. It can protect sensitive systems against cyber threats.

Jamf Pro even includes a self-service portal with detailed guidelines. It enables end users to update software, install apps, and maintain their devices without manual intervention.

3. Addigy

Addigy
Source: Addigy.com

Addigy offers an Apple device management platform tailored for IT teams and managed service providers.

One of its features is automated patch management for Mac operating systems. It makes sure that all devices receive timely updates to maintain security and optimal performance.

The platform also provides real-time monitoring that makes it easy to track patch statuses and address issues promptly.

Plus, Addigy supports third-party application patching. This keeps all software installed on Mac devices up to date.

4. Action1

Action1
Source: Action1.com

Action1 is a cloud-native patch management platform that can automatically deploy software updates to Mac devices.

It also offers a real-time assessment of missing patches and compliance status. This allows IT teams to address security vulnerabilities promptly.

Action1 even enables professionals to apply custom patching via the platform's built-in software repository. It minimizes the risk of software supply chain attacks and keeps systems secure.

5. Kandji

Kandji
Source: Kandji.com

Kandji offers a Mac device management solution designed to simplify patch deployment. It uses the Auto Apps library to apply updates, fix bugs, and enhance features within a predefined enforcement window.

Kandji also lets IT teams choose when to enforce updates. It provides a final countdown before a forced upgrade or update happens.

Additionally, the platform provides a central dashboard that makes it easy to configure Mac device settings. It even allows technicians to set up security features, like account recovery or remote wipe, to significantly reduce risks.

What to Look for in Mac Patch Management Software

The best Mac patch management software should align with your company's existing security policies and IT needs. Here are factors to consider when evaluating different options:

Patch Deployment and Scheduling Tools

A high-quality platform allows IT teams to schedule updates, approve patches before deployment, and roll back changes if needed.

Look for automated patching capabilities and flexible scheduling tools.

Remote Patch Management Capabilities

If your organization has a remote workforce, you should choose patch management software with secure remote access capabilities.

Make sure it allows you to deploy updates over the cloud and track real-time patch statuses from any location. This reduces the need for on-site visits, which can delay updates and increase security risks.

Third-Party Application Patching

Keeping MacOS updated is not enough. Many security threats come from outdated third-party applications installed in your company's Mac endpoints.

The best software updates apps like Chrome, Zoom, and Adobe without requiring manual intervention.

Compliance and Security Features

Invest in patch management software that generates audit reports, tracks patch compliance, and provides security alerts. These features help your business comply with strict security standards.

Integration With Other Tools

Choose patch management software that fits into your existing IT workflows to reduce data silos. Make sure it seamlessly integrates with mobile device management software, endpoint security platforms, and other tools.

Best Practices for Effective Mac Patch Management

To maximize the benefits of MacOS patch management software, you should follow the best practices below:

Automate the Patching Process

Manual patching is slow and prone to errors. Take advantage of automated patch management features to schedule updates, enforce policies, and reduce security risks across all MacOS devices.

Prioritize Critical Security Updates

Not all patches have the same urgency. Deploy critical security updates first to close security vulnerabilities that hackers exploit. You can use patch severity ratings to decide what needs immediate action.

Test Patches Before Full Deployment

Pushing untested updates can cause system failures. Test the software patches in a controlled environment to check for compatibility issues before updating all Mac devices.

Train IT Employees

You should teach IT employees how to use the new patch management software. Then, provide training on handling security risks and troubleshooting failed patches. This can improve response times and minimize downtime.

Automate Mac Patch Management With Level

Level automates Mac patch management

Managing MacOS updates across multiple devices can be complex and time-consuming. Level simplifies this process by offering a comprehensive patch management solution.

It automatically applies software updates to ensure your Mac systems remain secure and compliant. If patches fail, it can instantly send notifications to close security gaps before they become serious.

In addition to reliable patch management, Level offers secure remote access to Mac devices and other operating systems like Windows and Linux. It can monitor device health and other key metrics in real time to help you stay ahead of issues.

Book a demo or try Level free for 14 days right now!

FAQs About Mac Patch Management

What is the patch management of a Mac?

Mac patch management involves deploying, tracking, and verifying updates for Mac devices. An effective patch management process can significantly reduce security risks, improve system performance, and meet compliance requirements.

What is the best patch management tool?

The best Mac patch management software depends on your needs. Level stands out for its automated patching capabilities, advanced security features, user-friendly interface, and affordable pricing.

What are the six steps in the patch management process?

The patch management process follows six key steps:

  1. Identify missing patches on MacOS devices.
  2. Evaluate the importance of each update.
  3. Test patches in a controlled environment.
  4. Schedule and deploy approved patches.
  5. Monitor update status and resolve failures.
  6. Document patch history for compliance reporting.

Is MacOS Patcher safe?

MacOS patcher tools can be safe if they come from trusted sources. However, unofficial patching tools that modify system updates may introduce risks. IT teams should use reliable patch management software that integrates with Apple’s update framework for secure and verified deployments across all Mac devices.

Level: Simplify IT Management

At Level, we understand the modern challenges faced by IT professionals. That's why we've crafted a robust, browser-based Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) platform that's as flexible as it is secure. Whether your team operates on Windows, Mac, or Linux, Level equips you with the tools to manage, monitor, and control your company's devices seamlessly from anywhere.

Ready to revolutionize how your IT team works? Experience the power of managing a thousand devices as effortlessly as one. Start with Level today—sign up for a free trial or book a demo to see Level in action.