We've recently installed an Apple Software Update Server. This server works in much the same way as the Windows Software Update Service -- it downloads patches and updates and makes them available from a centrally managed server. This saves Internet bandwidth as updates are only downloaded once, and then distributed locally. The server currently supports Mac OS X 10.4 (Tiger) and Mac OS X 10.5 (Leopard), and is a replica of the updates available from Apple.com's update servers.
Whilst this service was funded from, and is primarily aimed at users of, the Student Network, other users of Rhodes' network (including Staff who have Apple Macs) are welcome to make use of it. Instructions for configuring your Mac to make use of the local Apple Software Update Server can be found on the Student Networking web page at
http://www.ru.ac.za/administrative/it/stud...gs/appleupdate/.
Please note that this service is currently experimental. Whilst we welcome constructive feedback, the service is provided as-is. There are several known bugs in the most recent version Apple's Software Update Server software which might case the service to break or be discontinued; these might be addressed when OS X Server 10.5.2 is released.
The existence of this Apple Software Update Server in no way implies that the University has changed its position with regard to support for Apple Macs on campus; they remain officially unsupported. The service is merely provided as a convenience service in an effort to conserve Internet bandwidth.