You send an MDM command with a "requires tethering” option to devices to update the...

When devices are updated using Apple Configurator with the“requires tethering”option, the host Mac acts as the source for software updates. In this model, the Mac downloads and caches update packages, which are then installed onto the connected iOS or iPadOS device. This bypasses typical over-the-air (OTA) caching mechanisms and content delivery networks. Apple specifies this workflow as beneficial when updating large numbers of devices in lab or classroom environments, where bandwidth efficiency and predictable installation are important. Thus, the cached update content resideson the host Mac, ensuring devices receive updates directly from a local source.