Install software updates on Mac
Overview
Software updates provide security improvements, bug fixes, and new features. Mac computers can install updates wirelessly through Software Update, automatically overnight, or using macOS Recovery.
A software update is a later version of the currently installed macOS or other software, such as an update from macOS 15.4 to macOS 15.5. An upgrade is a major new version of macOS with a new name, such as an upgrade from macOS 15 to macOS 26.
Mac computers automatically check for and can install software updates wirelessly or through macOS Recovery. Organizations can manage when updates appear and install on supervised devices through device management services. Clear communication with users about update policies helps prevent disruptions and support calls.
Software update methods
Users have several ways to install software updates:
Manual updates: Users choose Apple menu > System Settings, click General in the sidebar, then click Software Update to check for and install updates. This method requires a Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection and adequate Mac storage.
Automatic updates: Users choose Apple menu > System Settings, click General in the sidebar, click Software Update, then click Automatic Updates to turn on automatic installation. Updates can install overnight while the Mac is connected to power, Wi-Fi or Ethernet, and asleep. Users can choose from:
Download new updates when available
Install macOS updates
Install app updates from the App Store
Updates that use macOS Recovery: When manual or automatic updates aren’t available, users can install macOS from macOS Recovery. This method provides a clean installation environment free from interference by other software. For more information, see the Apple Support article How to reinstall macOS.
Background Security Improvements: Users choose Apple menu > System Settings, click Privacy & Security in the sidebar, then click Background Security Improvements. These are important security improvements delivered between software updates for the latest macOS versions.
They apply automatically by default and may require a Mac restart. A letter appears after the software version number when applied, like macOS 15.1 (a).
Managed software updates
On supervised devices enrolled through Automated Device Enrollment, organizations control software update behavior through device management. Administrators can delay when updates appear for up to 90 days, enforce minimum operating system versions, and control automatic update settings.
When device management restricts updates, users see dimmed update options or messages indicating their Mac is running the latest software allowed by their administrator. Updates unavailable due to organizational policies won’t appear in the Software Update window.
Feature | Managed devices | Unmanaged devices |
|---|---|---|
Update availability | Time-based deferrals up to 90 days after public release. | User has access to all publicly available updates. |
Update enforcement | A device management service administrator can enforce specific updates by target date. | User controls when to install updates. |
Version control | Restricted to approved versions only. | User can update or upgrade to any available version. |
Automatic updates | Configurable through device management declarations. | User controls automatic update settings. |
macOS can’t locate the update
What to look for:
An error occurred while updating or installing macOS.
Missing update or upgrade options on managed Mac computers.
What’s happening:
A message might say that an error occurred while downloading, preparing, or installing, or that the software is damaged, couldn’t be verified, failed to personalize, or needs to be reinstalled.
Device management policies restricting update availability on managed devices or the Mac doesn’t meet minimum system requirements.
Steps to take:
Restart the Mac.
Ensure the Mac has a stable Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection and adequate battery power.
Try updating using a different network connection.
Try the update again if installation fails.
Confirm VPN access is turned off.
Verify the network has access to the software update servers.
Use Disk Utility to repair the startup disk.
Install from macOS Recovery.
macOS can’t complete the update
What to look for:
Update progress stalling or moving slowly.
Insufficient device storage for update files.
What’s happening:
Network connectivity issues may prevent access to the update server, or the Mac may not have enough storage for the update files.
Steps to take:
Ensure the Mac has a stable Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection and adequate battery power.
Try updating using a different network connection.
To free up storage space, choose Apple menu > System Settings, click General in the sidebar, then click Storage.
Install from macOS Recovery for unresponsive devices during updates.
Managed Mac computer software updates missing
What to look for:
Missing update or upgrade options on managed Mac computers.
What’s happening:
Device management policies restricting update availability on managed devices or the Mac doesn’t meet minimum system requirements.
Steps to take:
Contact the device management administrator if update options are dimmed or unavailable on managed devices.
Verify Mac compatibility with the upgrade version.