1.3 Ensure Download New Updates When Available Is Enabled

Information

In the GUI, both 'Install macOS updates' and 'Install app updates from the App Store' are dependent on whether 'Download new updates when available' is selected.

Rationale:

It is important that a system has the newest updates downloaded so that they can be applied.

Impact:

If 'Download new updates when available' is not selected, updates may not be made in a timely manner and the system will be exposed to additional risk.

Solution

Perform the following to enable the system to automatically check for updates:
Graphical Method:

Open System Settings

Select General

Select Software Update

Select the i

Set Download new updates when available to enabled

Select Done

Terminal Method:
Run the following command to enable auto update:

$ /usr/bin/sudo /usr/bin/defaults write /Library/Preferences/com.apple.SoftwareUpdate AutomaticDownload -bool true

Profile Method:
Create or edit a configuration profile with the following information:

The PayloadType string is com.apple.SoftwareUpdate

The key to include is AutomaticDownload

The key must be set to <true/>

See Also

https://workbench.cisecurity.org/files/4159