Update macOS on Mac
To maintain your computer's security, stability, and compatibility, Apple recommends using the latest macOS that is compatible with your Mac. macOS updates and upgrades also include the latest features and built-in apps such as Safari, Mail, and Apple Music. Use Software Update to keep your Mac up to date.
Use Software Update to get updates
Software Update finds, downloads, and installs Apple software updates and upgrades that are compatible with your Mac model. Before installing new software, it's a good idea to back up your Mac.
Open Software Update:
Use Spotlight
in the menu bar to search for "Software Update," then click to open it from the search results. Or choose System Settings from the Apple menu in the corner of your screen. In the window that opens, click General in the sidebar, then click Software Update on the right.
If your older Mac doesn’t have Software Update, use other ways to download and install macOS.
When Software Update opens, it automatically checks for new software. If new software is available for your Mac, click the Update, Upgrade, or Restart Now button to install it.
If no new software is available for your Mac, Software Update says that your Mac is up to date. To check again, click Check for Update, press Command-R on your keyboard, or close and reopen Software Update.
Before installation begins, you’re asked to enter your administrator password. It's the password you use to log in to your Mac. Forgot your password?
Allow installation to complete without putting your Mac to sleep or closing its lid. During installation, your Mac might restart and show a progress bar or blank screen several times.
Learn what to do if an error occurs during installation or your Mac doesn’t start up all the way.
If Software Update doesn’t show an update
Software Update shows only software that is compatible with your Mac model. If your Mac doesn’t need or isn't compatible with an update or upgrade, Software Update doesn't offer it to you and says that your Mac is up to date.
These are the most recent macOS upgrades and the computers that can use them:
Is your Mac compatible? | What’s new in this macOS |
|---|---|
Learn more
Use Software Update settings to control which updates your Mac downloads or installs automatically.
An update is a minor new release of the currently installed macOS or other software, such as an update from macOS Tahoe 26 to macOS Tahoe 26.2. An upgrade is a major new release of macOS with a new name, such as an upgrade from macOS Sequoia 15 to macOS Tahoe 26. Learn more about Apple software updates.