How To Update Mac: Stay Safe and Up to Date

how to update mac

Shaira Urbano|19. Juni 2025

Learning how to update your Mac is one of the easiest ways to keep your system safe and running smoothly.

To update your Mac, open System Settings (or System Preferences) and select Software Update. If you see any available updates, click “Update Now” and follow the instructions on your screen.

For easier updates in the future, you can turn on automatic updates right from this menu so your Mac stays current without any extra steps.

Keeping your software up to date helps Safari and other apps work their best. It also fixes known security problems.

Many updates add new features and improve the apps you use every day. While updating, backing up your Mac with Time Machine is a smart move to protect your files.

If you’re not sure how to update your Mac, or if your Mac just refuses to update, you’re honestly not alone. This guide walks you through steps anyone can follow.

How To Update Mac – Quick And Easy Steps

Keeping your Mac updated matters for security, performance, and getting the latest features. Updates help apps run better, fix bugs, and protect your data from new threats.

Why Updating Your Mac Matters

When you update your Mac, you get the newest security patches, bug fixes, and features from Apple. Old software leaves you open to hackers, so installing updates protects your files and privacy.

Updates can make your Mac run better and support newer apps in the Mac App Store. Many updates improve built-in apps like Safari and Mail, so you might notice things running a bit smoother.

Keeping up with updates lets your Mac use the latest software and accessories. Ignoring updates increases your risk for problems and limits what your computer can do.

How To Check For And Install macOS Updates

To check for macOS updates, click the Apple menu () at the top left of your screen. Select System Settings (or System Preferences if you’re on an older macOS), then choose General > Software Update.

Your Mac checks for available updates automatically. If it finds one, you’ll see options like Upgrade Now, Update Now, or Download and Install.

Follow the on-screen instructions. Your Mac might need to restart, so make sure you’ve got enough storage space for the update—usually several gigabytes.

Backing up your Mac with Time Machine before big updates is just smart. Backups help you recover your files if something unexpected happens.

How To Turn On Automatic Updates On Mac

Turning on automatic updates saves you time and hassle. Automatic updates keep your Mac’s software, apps, and security patches current as soon as Apple releases them.

Head to System Settings > General > Software Update. Click Automatic Updates, then turn on all the options like:

Check for updates
Download new updates when available
Install macOS updates
Install application updates from the App Store
Install Security Responses and system files

This keeps your Mac current with barely any effort from you. Your Mac usually updates apps and essential files quietly in the background.

For big system upgrades (like moving from macOS Ventura to the next version), you’ll still need to confirm before it installs. Apple doesn’t want to catch you off guard.

What To Do If Your Mac Won’t Update

If your Mac won’t update, check your internet connection first. You need a solid connection for updates to work.

Make sure your Mac has enough free storage space. Updates can fail if space is tight, so move files to an external drive or delete what you don’t need.

Try restarting your Mac. If that doesn’t work, boot into Safe Mode (hold Shift while starting up) and try running the update again.

Double-check that your Mac model supports the latest macOS. Older computers sometimes only get updates for past versions like Catalina or Big Sur.

If nothing works, head to Apple Support or try making a bootable installer with a USB drive to reinstall macOS. Always back up your data before you get too adventurous.

How To Update Apps On Mac

Apps from the Mac App Store are easy to update. Open the App Store from your Applications folder, then click Updates in the sidebar.

You can update individual apps or just hit Update All. For apps not from the App Store, open the app and look for something like Check for Updates in the menu bar, usually under the app’s name.

Some apps update themselves or prompt you when a new version’s out. Keeping your apps updated helps dodge bugs and security headaches.

If you want, set Mac App Store apps to update automatically by going to App Store settings under System Settings and turning on automatic app updates.

Want to type even faster or add more features to your iPad? Check out How to Connect Keyboard to iPad: Guide for All Types for simple setup tips.

Tips For A Smooth Mac Update

Before you start, back up your data. Use Time Machine or another backup tool to save important files, just in case something goes sideways.

Check your Mac’s compatibility with the new macOS version. Apple’s website lists which models support each update.

Clear out extra files and unused apps. Freeing up storage makes updates run faster and helps avoid errors.

Plug your Mac into a power source. Updates can take a while, and losing power mid-update is a headache you don’t want.

Close all open apps before updating. This lowers the chance of software conflicts or weird glitches.

Make sure you have a stable internet connection. A dropped connection can stop the update right in its tracks.

Sometimes, updates restart your Mac more than once. This is normal. Just let it do its thing.

If you use important third-party software, check with the developers or their websites to see if it's compatible with the new macOS. Some apps might need updates themselves after you upgrade.

Final Thoughts

Updating your Mac keeps it fast, secure, and running smoothly. With just a few steps, you can check for updates, install them, and even set your Mac to update by itself. This helps you get the latest features and fixes right away.

Now you know how to update Mac without any hassle! Make a habit of checking for updates regularly or turn on automatic updates for peace of mind. Keeping your Mac up to date is one of the easiest ways to protect your computer and enjoy everything it can do.

Thinking about upgrading your device? Discover the pros and cons in our article, iPad Pro vs MacBook Air: Which Is Right for You? and find the perfect fit for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I update my Mac to the latest version?

Click the Apple menu and go to “System Settings.”
Select “General,” then click “Software Update.”

If an update is available, you’ll see it here. Click “Update Now” or “Upgrade Now” to start the process.

You might be asked for your Apple ID and password. Make sure your Mac is plugged in, connected to the internet, and has enough storage space.

How do I get my old Mac to update?

First, check if your Mac is compatible with the newest macOS version. Apple’s website has a compatibility list for each release.

For older Macs, you may only have updates for the macOS version you already use. Go to Apple Menu > About This Mac > Software Update.

If your Mac can’t download the newest version, you may only see security or minor updates.

Why can't I update my macOS anymore?

Some Apple computers don’t support the newest versions of macOS. Apple usually limits new releases to certain models for hardware reasons.

If you don’t see new macOS updates, your Mac might not be on the list of compatible devices. Macs typically get major updates for about 7 years after release.

Why am I unable to update my macOS?

This might happen if your Mac isn’t compatible with the latest software. Sometimes, your internet connection, not enough disk space, or low battery can block updates.

Try restarting your Mac, making space on your hard drive, or checking your Wi-Fi. If the problem keeps happening, check if your Mac can run the latest version by visiting Apple’s compatibility page.