Published 2023-07-25 by TechNet New England
Keeping macOS updated protects your Mac from security vulnerabilities and keeps applications running smoothly. ## Check for Updates 1. Click the **Apple menu** in the top left corner. 2. Select **System Settings**. 3. Click **General > Software Update**. 4. Your Mac will check for available updates. 5. If an update is available, click **Update Now** (for minor updates) or **Upgrade Now** (for major version upgrades). 6. Enter your password when prompted. 7. Your Mac will download and install the update. It may restart one or more times during the process. ## Automatic Updates To keep your Mac updated automatically: 1. In **System Settings > General > Software Update**, click the **Info** button (the "i" icon) next to **Automatic Updates**. 2. Toggle on: **Check for updates**: Checks regularly. **Download new updates when available**: Downloads in the background. **Install macOS updates**: Installs automatically. **Install Security Responses and system files**: Installs critical security patches immediately. ## Minor Updates vs. Major Upgrades **Minor updates** (like macOS 15.1 to 15.1.1) include security patches and bug fixes. These are generally safe to install promptly and are smaller downloads. **Major upgrades** (like macOS 14 Sonoma to macOS 15 Sequoia) include new features and significant changes. These are larger downloads and take longer to install. It is reasonable to wait a few weeks after a major release to ensure compatibility with your applications, especially in a work environment. ## Before Updating **Back up your Mac** before installing major updates. Use Time Machine or another backup solution. While updates rarely cause data loss, having a backup is always smart. **Check application compatibility.** If you rely on specific software for work, verify that it supports the new macOS version before upgrading. Check the developer's website or release notes. **Make sure you have enough space.** Major upgrades can require 25 GB or more of free disk space. **Plug in your Mac.** Do not attempt updates on battery power. Connect to power before starting. ## Troubleshooting **"Update not found" but you know one exists:** Restart your Mac and check again. Sometimes the update server is slow to report available updates. **Update stuck on "Preparing":** Leave it for at least an hour. If it is truly stuck, force restart (hold the power button for 10 seconds) and try again. **Not enough space:** Free up disk space before retrying. See our guide on freeing up storage on Mac. ## Managed Macs If your Mac is managed by your organization through Jamf, Mosyle, or another MDM platform, updates may be controlled by your IT team. You might see a notification saying "Your organization will manage updates" or the update button may be restricted. Contact your IT help desk if you need an update that is not being pushed to your device.