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University computers receive updates through a managed system that ensures the stability and security of all university-managed devices. These updates apply to both Windows and macOS computers and include system updates as well as third-party applications.
This guide provides an overview of how updates are delivered, what actions (if any) employees need to take, and how to manage updates on university-managed computers.
Windows
Windows computers receive operating system updates via the update system. If you are using a laptop, it must be powered on and connected to the internet (not in sleep mode). If you are using a desktop, it must be connected to the university's internet or connected via VPN to receive updates. Desktops on personal networks or in sleep mode will not receive updates.
When your computer has new updates to install, a popup message will appear. This message will become more frequent as the update deadline approaches. You will have two options. You can ignore the message, which will result in automatic installation at the deadline, or you can choose to download and install the update at your convenience to avoid interruptions.
Follow the steps below to download and install a Windows update.
Step 1
Click the popup to open the Software Center window.
Step 2
Choose one of the following options:
- Apply all required changes now: This starts a 12-hour timer. You must restart your computer within this window or it will restart automatically.
- Apply all changes outside my business hours: Click View my configured business hours to select a time when the computer is not in use. Updates and restarts will occur automatically outside of these hours.
Your computer will be fully updated after the restart.
If you let the system restart automatically, another popup will appear nine hours before the restart. It is highly recommended to save your work at this stage.
Your computer will be fully updated after the restart.
macOS
Step 1
On the popup prompt, select Start now or choose a deferral time period for when you want updates to be installed.
Step 2
Click Submit.
Updates will install at the time you selected. Notifications will appear when the installation begins and ends.
Step 2
If a restart is required, be sure to save your work before proceeding.
Third-party application updates via PatchMypC
C&IT uses PatchMyPC to manage and update all third-party applications on university-managed Windows computers, or applications used by Wayne State that do not come with the computer itself or its original operating system.
This ensures that all applications on university-managed computers (and other devices) that are used for Wayne State administration and business use the most current version to avoid potential and known vulnerabilities. This includes over 160 applications, and each computer is different, PatchMyPC individually evaluates each Windows computer to identify installed software that is not in compliance.
- Most updates are applied automatically without requiring user action.
- In some cases, the application being updated must be closed. Users will receive a notification and may delay the update for up to one hour, with a maximum of five deferrals.
- After five deferrals, the application will automatically close and update.
- If the user is off-campus or not using the computer during the scheduled update, PatchMyPC will apply updates the next time the computer is powered on and logged in.
Manually install application updates
Users can manually install third-party application updates:
- Open Software Center.
- Go to the Update section.
- Select and install available updates.
FAQ
How often are patches applied to managed computers?
For the early update group, updates are scheduled on the first Friday following the second Tuesday of each month. For most managed computers, updates occur on the second Friday following the second Tuesday of each month.
How long do updates take?
Most updates are completed in a few minutes. Larger applications like AutoCAD may take longer.
Do third-party application updates require a reboot?
No. PatchMyPC updates do not require a system reboot.
What applications are managed by PatchMyPC?