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macOS Patching Automation

Created by

Level

Type

Automation

Category

Patching

Platforms
WindowsApple iOSLinux

Problem Overview

Managing updates for macOS can be cumbersome, especially when you need to control rollout timing and avoid potential issues with new releases. Native System Preferences offer limited automation and scheduling flexibility, making it tough to handle patching across numerous endpoints in a consistent, low-effort way. This Automation centralizes macOS updates so you can control scheduling, delay patches for testing, and retry any that initially fail—all while staying informed through automated alerts.

Description

macOS Patching Automation uses Level’s native actions to check for and install macOS updates on your schedule—no manual commands or complex scripting required. You can delay certain patches to ensure stability before widespread deployment, and the Automation will retry any failed installations once. If a patch fails a second time, an alert is generated so you’ll know exactly which systems need further attention. Simply import this resource, configure your desired patching window and delay settings, and let the Automation handle the heavy lifting.

Preview

macOS Patching Automation

Use Cases

  • Consistent OS Management: Keep all managed Macs on the same patch level without manual oversight.
  • Delayed Rollouts: Evaluate and test macOS updates on a small subset of devices first.
  • Retry & Alert: Automatically attempt failed updates again, generating an alert if the second attempt still fails.
  • User-Friendly Scheduling: Choose maintenance windows that minimize productivity disruption.
  • Hands-Off Maintenance: Reduce manual workload by automating routine patches across the fleet.

Recommendations

  • Set Up Scheduling: Review your existing maintenance windows and decide on a weekly or monthly update schedule that minimizes user disruption.
  • Adjust Patch Categories: After importing, specify which macOS Updates Categories you want to include or exclude for better control.
  • Delay for Stability: Use the built-in delay feature to avoid immediate patch deployment, giving you time to confirm stability in test environments.
  • Start Small: Implement the Automation on a test group of endpoints first, then expand to your broader environment after confirming success.
  • Monitor Alerts: Keep an eye on notifications for any patch failures—so you can address issues promptly.

FAQ

  • Do I need scripting experience to use this Automation?
    Not at all. It uses Level’s built-in functionality, so there’s no command-line or custom code to manage.
  • How are reboots handled?
    This Automation doesn’t initiate reboots automatically. Check out our “Ask User to Reboot” Automation if you’d like to gently prompt users to restart.
  • Which macOS versions are supported?
    Generally macOS 10.13 (High Sierra) and newer. Ensure each device meets Apple’s minimum requirements for OS upgrades.
  • What if a patch fails to install?
    The Automation will retry it twice. After the third attempt fails, you’ll receive an alert, allowing you to investigate.
  • Can I customize patch timing and delay intervals?
    Yes. After importing the Automation, you can set the schedule to match your maintenance windows and configure any delay you need for new updates.

Included with this Automation:

Below is a list of what you can expect to find when importing this Automation.

Script details:

The following data and settings will be imported with your script.

Triggers

  • Manual
  • Weekly Schedule

Actions

  • Install macOS Updates
  • Create Alert
Import into Level

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