Propagation of software updates in a wireless mesh network is handled according to an “informed push” model. Nodes are given the software update that they need, but this is done in response to a sequence of propagating reports on the need for the upgrade (i.e., that node devices have old versions). Each node device executes a reporting cycle in which a report is sent to its neighbors that indicates the types and versions of software items that reside on the device; and for non-resident software items, the lowest versions of which the node device received knowledge from its neighbors. If a node device determines that its reporting neighbor has an old version of a software item and the node device contains a newer version of that software type residing locally, then it sends its neighbor the upgrade. Otherwise, the node “gossips” about the old version to its own neighbors.