Software update, upgrade--what's the difference?
Summary
Find out the differences between an Apple software update and an upgrade.
Products Affected
Mac OS X 10.4, Mac OS X 10.3, Mac OS X 10.2, Mac OS X 10.1, Mac OS X 10.0, Mac OS X 10.5, Mac OS X 10.6
Upgrade
An Apple "software upgrade" means a major, standalone version of a software product. Such products are usually something you purchase. They are shipped in a box or shrink-wrapped package. Mac OS X upgrades are sometimes also called "reference releases."
For example, Mac OS X v10.6 is an upgrade product available from an Apple reseller, Apple Retail store, or the Apple Online Store.
Update
A "software update" updates a major (reference release) version of software, but does not upgrade it to the next major version (if one exists). Software updates are made available via download from the Software Update application in Mac OS X and typically provide fixes that enhance the stability, compatibility and security of your Mac. For example, Apple provided the Mac OS X v10.5.8 Update as a software update to Mac OS X v10.5.
Key differences
- A software update is usually downloadable; a software upgrade usually is not.
- A software upgrade usually increments the first "dot" number of a product (for example Mac OS X v10.6, Mac OS X v10.5); a downloadable software update usually increments second "dot" number (for example, Mac OS X v10.4.11, Mac OS X v10.5.8).