How to Update macOS Safely

If you are wondering how to update Mac software without risking your files or interrupting your day, a little preparation makes the process much easier. macOS updates bring security fixes, bug repairs, and sometimes new features, but it is sensible to check a few things before you begin.

You do not need to be an expert to update your Mac. Follow the steps below, allow enough time for the installation, and keep your Mac connected to power while it works.

What you’ll need

• Your Mac and its administrator password, if your Mac asks for one.
• A reliable internet connection.
• Your Mac’s power adapter, especially if you are using a MacBook.
• A recent backup is strongly recommended before a major update.

Step 1: Check which version of macOS you have

Before installing anything, it helps to know which version is currently on your Mac. This can also help you understand whether an update is available for your particular model.

1. Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen.
2. Choose About This Mac.
3. Look for the macOS name and version number in the window that appears.
4. Make a note of the information if you want to compare it with Apple’s update information.

The version number tells you which release you are using. A smaller update may fix problems or improve security, while a major upgrade moves your Mac to a newer macOS version.

Good to know: Your Mac will not necessarily be offered every new macOS version. Apple only supports compatible Mac models, so the update options depend on the age and model of your computer.

Step 2: Back up your Mac

A backup is a separate copy of your important files. It gives you a way to recover them if something unexpected happens, so it is worth doing before a major macOS upgrade.

Apple’s built-in backup tool is called Time Machine. You normally need an external storage drive for a Time Machine backup.

1. Connect an external drive to your Mac.
2. Open the Apple menu and choose System Settings.
3. In the sidebar, click General.
4. Select Time Machine.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to add a backup disk and start a backup, if one is not already set up.

The exact prompts can vary depending on your macOS version and whether Time Machine has been used before. If you already use another trusted backup service, check that it has completed a recent backup before continuing.

Tip: Do not assume that files stored in iCloud are a complete backup of your Mac. Check that important documents, photos, and other files are backed up in a way you can access if needed.

Step 3: Get your Mac ready for the update

A few simple checks can prevent avoidable interruptions during installation. You do not need to remove all your files or change complicated settings.

1. Save your work and close documents you are editing.
2. Connect your MacBook to its power adapter. If you have a desktop Mac, make sure its power connection is secure.
3. Check that your internet connection is working.
4. Make sure you have enough free storage. Open System Settings, choose General, then select Storage to review the available space.
5. If you use important work or specialist apps, check that their developers say they support the macOS version you plan to install.

If your Mac is nearly full, use the recommendations in Storage to review large files and apps. Do not delete anything you are unsure about. You can also move personal files to a suitable external drive after confirming that you have another copy.

Careful: Avoid starting an update just before an important meeting, trip, or deadline. The download and installation can take a while, and your Mac may restart more than once.

Step 4: Find and install the macOS update

On recent versions of macOS, updates are managed in Software Update inside System Settings. This is the normal place to check for Apple’s available updates.

1. Click the Apple menu.
2. Choose System Settings.
3. Click General in the sidebar.
4. Select Software Update.
5. Wait while your Mac checks for available updates.
6. If an update is offered, read its name and details.
7. Click Update Now or Upgrade Now, depending on what is shown.
8. Follow the on-screen instructions. Enter your administrator password if requested.

An update usually means a smaller release within your current macOS version. An upgrade usually means moving to a newer major version. Both are installed through Software Update when they are available for your Mac.

Good to know: You may see more than one update option. Read the descriptions before choosing, especially if one is a major upgrade and you would rather install only the latest security and maintenance update for your current version.

Step 5: Let the installation finish

After you start the installation, your Mac may prepare files, restart, and show an Apple logo or progress bar. This is normal.

1. Keep your Mac connected to power.
2. Leave it alone while the progress bar moves.
3. Do not close the lid of your MacBook during the installation unless the on-screen instructions specifically tell you to.
4. Wait for the Mac to restart and show the sign-in screen or desktop.
5. Sign in and give the Mac a little time to finish setting things up.

The progress bar may appear to pause for a while. That does not automatically mean the update has stopped. Avoid forcing your Mac to shut down simply because the screen has not changed for a few minutes.

Step 6: Check that the update worked

Once your Mac has restarted, you can confirm the installed version and check that your everyday essentials still work.

1. Open the Apple menu.
2. Choose About This Mac.
3. Check the macOS version shown.
4. Open a few apps you use regularly.
5. Check that your internet connection, printer, and any external accessories you rely on are working.

If you use an external monitor, printer, or other accessory, reconnect it if necessary and check that it works as expected. Some apps may also show their own updates after macOS has been updated.

Troubleshooting: If the update does not work

Most updates complete without difficulty, but these checks can help if you run into a problem.

• No update appears: Your Mac may already be up to date, or it may not support the newest release. Check your Mac model and Apple’s compatibility information.
• The download will not start: Check your internet connection, then return to System Settings > General > Software Update and try again.
• There is not enough storage: Open System Settings > General > Storage and review the recommendations. Keep a backup before removing personal files.
• The Mac seems stuck: If the progress bar has not moved for a long time, keep the Mac connected to power. Check Apple’s guidance for the specific message or screen you see before attempting a forced restart.
• An app no longer works as expected: Check with the app’s developer for an update or compatibility information.

If you cannot get the update to install, visit Apple’s official support site or contact Apple Support. If your Mac is managed by an employer or school, its administrator may control when updates can be installed.

Keep your Mac up to date

Updating macOS is a straightforward way to receive important fixes and improvements. Back up first, connect to power, use Software Update in System Settings, and give your Mac time to finish. With those simple precautions, you can keep your Mac current with greater confidence.