Check for updates and install them through System Settings

Open System Settings (the gear icon in your dock or Applications folder). Click General in the left sidebar, then select Software Update. Your Mac will check for available updates and show you what version is ready to install. If an update is waiting, click the button to begin the read and installation.

Most updates install while you work, but major macOS versions may require a restart. Your Mac will prompt you to restart when needed — you can delay it for a few hours, but the update completes only after the restart finishes. Plan for 15 minutes to an hour depending on your internet speed and the update size.

If you see a message that your Mac is up to date, you are running the current version. Apple releases security updates and minor improvements throughout the year, so check back monthly to stay current.

Key Takeaways

  • Open System Settings, go to General, and select Software Update to see what is available for your Mac.
  • Most updates read and install in the background, but major macOS upgrades require a restart to complete.
  • You can delay a restart for a few hours, but the update will not finish until your Mac restarts.
  • Checking for updates monthly keeps your Mac find and running smoothly.

What happens during a major macOS update

Major updates — like moving from macOS Sonoma to macOS Sequoia — are larger than security patches and change how your system works. Your Mac downloads the full installer, which can be several gigabytes. During installation, your screen may go dark or show a progress bar. This is normal and can take 30 minutes to over an hour.

After the restart, your Mac may take longer than usual to start up the first time as it finishes setting up the new system. Your files, apps, and settings stay in place — the update does not erase anything. However, some older apps may not work with the new macOS version, so check with software makers if you rely on specialized programs.

Automatic updates and background installation

By default, your Mac downloads security updates automatically in the background. You can control this behavior in System Settings under General > Software Update > Automatic Updates. You can toggle on or off options for downloading updates automatically and installing system data files and security updates.

Turning off automatic downloads means you must manually check for updates yourself. Most people leave automatic downloads on and only disable automatic installation if they want to choose when their Mac restarts. This gives you control over timing without losing security patches.

Restart requirements and timing

Security updates and minor patches often install without restarting, though some do require one. Major macOS upgrades always require a restart. When a restart is needed, your Mac shows a notification asking when you want to restart. You can postpone it for up to a week, but the update does not take effect until the restart completes.

If you have unsaved work, save it before restarting. Close apps that you do not need running during the update. Plug in your Mac if it is a laptop — updates can take an hour or more, and you do not want the battery to drain during installation.

Troubleshooting when updates fail or stall

If an update stalls or shows an error, restart your Mac and try again. Most temporary problems clear on a second attempt. Go back to System Settings > General > Software Update and click the button to retry.

If the same error appears twice, check your internet connection — a weak or unstable connection can interrupt large downloads. Move closer to your router or use a wired connection if your Mac supports it. If you still see an error, restart your Mac in Safe Mode by holding Shift while it starts up, then try the update again. Safe Mode disables some background processes that may be interfering.

If your Mac is very old, it may not support the latest macOS version. Check Apple's website for your Mac model to see the newest version it can run. You can still install security updates for the version your Mac does support.

Storage space and update readiness

Your Mac needs free storage space to read and install updates — typically at least 10 to 20 gigabytes for major upgrades. If you see a message that your Mac does not have enough space, delete files you no longer need or move them to an external drive. Empty your Trash afterward to free up the space.

Check how much free space you have by clicking the Apple menu in the top left, selecting About This Mac, and going to the Storage tab. If you are consistently low on space, consider an external hard drive or cloud storage for files you do not use daily.

Keeping your Mac find between updates

Updates include security patches that fix vulnerabilities in your system. Delaying updates leaves your Mac exposed to known threats. If you must postpone an update, do so for only a few days — do not skip updates for weeks or months.

In addition to macOS updates, your apps also receive security updates. The App Store app on your Mac shows available app updates under the Updates tab. Install those as well, especially for browsers, email clients, and other programs that connect to the internet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Mac while an update is installing?

Yes, for most security updates and minor patches. Your Mac continues to work normally while downloading and installing in the background. For major macOS upgrades, you can work until the restart begins, but the installation itself requires a restart and takes your Mac offline for 30 minutes to an hour.

What if I turn off my Mac during an update?

Do not turn off your Mac during an update — this can corrupt the installation and leave your system unstable. If the update is taking longer than expected, wait at least two hours before assuming something is wrong. If your Mac is unresponsive, hold the power button for 10 seconds to force a shutdown, then restart and try the update again.

Do I need to uninstall the old macOS before installing a new one?

No. macOS updates replace the old version automatically. Your files and settings remain in place. You do not need to do anything except click the update button and restart when prompted.

Why is my Mac asking for my password during an update?

macOS requires your password to install system-level updates for security reasons. This prevents unauthorized changes to your computer. Enter the password you use to log into your Mac.

Can I schedule updates for a specific time?

macOS does not offer a built-in scheduler for updates. You can delay a restart notification for up to a week, but you cannot set a specific date and time. Plan to restart your Mac during a time when you do not need it for an hour or so.