If you're running an agency using GoHighLevel, you know that keeping your Client Portal mobile app secure and up-to-date is non-negotiable. But here's the problem: not all of your clients will update their apps manually. Some will be running outdated versions for weeks or months, exposing them to security vulnerabilities, performance issues, and missing features. That's where the Force App Update feature comes in. By enabling mandatory app updates in GoHighLevel, you ensure every single user on your Client Portal stays on the latest version—no exceptions. In this guide, I'll show you exactly how to set this up and why it matters for your agency's reputation and your clients' security. Ready to take control? Start your free 30-day GoHighLevel trial to explore this feature and dozens of others.
What Is the Force App Update Feature?
The Force App Update feature in GoHighLevel is a control mechanism that allows you to require all Client Portal mobile app users to update to the latest version before they can continue accessing the app. Unlike soft updates (which simply prompt users to update but allow them to proceed), forced updates are hard stops—users cannot access the app until they've downloaded and installed the newest version.
This feature operates at the agency level, meaning you decide when and how often updates become mandatory. When you flip the switch, any user attempting to open an outdated version of your branded Client Portal app will see a message requiring them to update. They have two choices: update now or lose access until they do.
In the context of GoHighLevel's ecosystem, this is powered by explicit app versioning—a foundational system that tracks every release and ensures compatibility across your entire client base. It's part of GoHighLevel's commitment to security and performance, especially critical given that your Client Portal is often the primary touchpoint between your agency and your clients.
💡 Pro Tip
Forced updates are most effective when paired with clear communication to your clients. Send a brief notice 48 hours before enforcement, letting them know an update is required and why. This reduces support tickets and confusion.
Why Mandatory Updates Matter for Your Agency
Security Vulnerabilities: New app versions patch security holes discovered in previous releases. When clients remain on outdated versions, they're exposed to potential breaches. If a client's data is compromised through an old app version, it reflects poorly on your agency—even if GoHighLevel fixed the issue on their end.
Performance & Bug Fixes: Each update typically includes performance improvements and bug fixes that make the app faster and more reliable. Outdated versions lag, crash, or behave unpredictably, damaging the user experience and generating unnecessary support requests.
Feature Access: New features and improvements in GoHighLevel are released regularly. By enforcing updates, you ensure all clients can access the latest capabilities you're paying for as an agency.
Compliance & Standards: Depending on your industry, maintaining current software versions may be a compliance requirement. Healthcare, finance, and legal agencies especially benefit from forced updates to meet regulatory standards.
Agency Reputation: When your clients experience app issues due to outdated versions, they blame you first. Forcing updates reduces support burden and ensures a consistently smooth experience across your entire client base.
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How to Enable Force App Update in GoHighLevel
Here's the step-by-step process to activate forced app updates in your GoHighLevel account:
Step 1: Log Into Your GoHighLevel Account
Head to your GoHighLevel dashboard and sign in with your agency credentials. You'll need admin or app management permissions to access these settings.
Step 2: Navigate to Client Portal Settings
Go to Settings → Client Portal → Mobile App. This is where all Client Portal app configurations live, including branding, permissions, and update settings.
Step 3: Locate the Force App Update Toggle
Within the Mobile App settings, find the section labeled Force App Update or Mandatory Update. You should see a toggle switch next to it, currently in the off position.
Step 4: Enable the Toggle
Click the toggle to turn on forced updates. Once enabled, GoHighLevel will monitor the app version running on each client's device. Any version older than the current release will trigger an update requirement.
Step 5: Set Update Enforcement Timing (Optional)
Some versions of GoHighLevel allow you to configure a grace period—a window of time before enforcement kicks in. This gives clients a reasonable window to update without being immediately locked out. If this option is available to you, set it to 24-72 hours depending on your client base.
Step 6: Save Your Changes
Scroll down and click Save or Update Settings. Your forced update policy is now active.
Step 7: Notify Your Clients
Send a professional email or in-app notification to all Client Portal users explaining that an update is required and why. Provide a direct link to the app store (Apple App Store or Google Play) where they can download the latest version.
What Your Clients Experience When Updates Are Forced
From your clients' perspective, the experience is straightforward:
First Attempt with Outdated App: When a client opens the Client Portal app on an old version, instead of loading the dashboard, they'll see a clear message stating that an update is required. The message is professional and non-alarming, explaining that they need to update to the latest version to continue.
Direct App Store Link: The message includes a direct link to either the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, depending on their device. One tap takes them directly to your branded app's store listing.
Update Installation: The client downloads and installs the latest version. This typically takes 2-5 minutes depending on connection speed.
Resumed Access: Once the update is installed and the app is relaunched, they have full access to the Client Portal and can continue working normally.
The entire process is frictionless for users who are motivated. For those who delay, the repeated prompt (each time they try to open the app) creates gentle pressure that eventually compels action.
Best Practices for Rolling Out Mandatory Updates
Communicate in Advance: Never surprise your clients with a forced update. Send a notification 48-72 hours before enforcement begins, explaining the update's purpose (security, performance, new features).
Time It Strategically: Avoid forcing updates during peak business hours when clients are actively using the app. Schedule enforcement during off-peak times or on weekends if possible.
Bundle Updates with Value: When you force an update, include something your clients benefit from—a new feature, a significant performance improvement, or a critical security patch. This framing helps them understand the update isn't just an inconvenience.
Monitor Support Tickets: After enabling forced updates, keep an eye on your support queue. Some clients will have questions or trouble updating. Be ready to provide guidance or troubleshooting.
Use Versioning Wisely: Don't force updates for every minor release. Reserve forced updates for significant releases that include security patches, major features, or critical bug fixes. Too-frequent forced updates can frustrate users.
Test Before Rolling Out: If possible, test the forced update mechanism on a small subset of your clients first. This ensures the process works smoothly before company-wide enforcement.
The Force App Update feature in GoHighLevel is a simple but powerful tool for maintaining security, performance, and consistency across your entire client base. By following the steps outlined above and adhering to best practices, you'll ensure that every client is always running the latest, most secure version of your branded Client Portal app. This protects both your clients and your agency's reputation. If you haven't explored this feature yet, now's the time—especially if you're managing a growing number of clients through the Client Portal. Your future support team will thank you for the proactive approach.