How to Update Mac and Keep it Updated

Keeping any piece of tech updated is important to iron out any bugs they may be having. The Mac is no different and in some cases even more important as there can be occasions when a security update is available. So learning how to update a Mac may keep all your files and personal data safe in the future.

In the top left-hand corner click the Apple Menu ()
From the Apple menu select System Preferences
On the system preferences select Software Update
Now in the software update select Update to begin the Mac update

It is not always easy following along with a how-to with a simple list. So I have the how-to with pictures and, if you look below, even video instructions.

How to Update Mac

Below we will run through the process of updating your Mac and how to spot signs an update is available. If you don’t want to do this manually and would prefer Apple to do this for you we show you how to allow that also.

Step 1. In the top left-hand corner click the Apple Menu ()

Mac Menu Bar

Step 2. From the Apple menu select System Preferences

You can see in the image below that there is an update available on the system preference.

Apple Menu drop down — Apple Menu drop-down

If you have the system preferences on the Mac dock the red notification badges on Mac indicate that there is an update available for your Mac.

It is not always the case that there’s a full system update available. Occasionally it may indicate changes are needed to your Apple ID.

Pressing the red notification badges will take you straight to the software update box.

Step 3. On the system preferences select Software Update

As on the Mac dock, you should see red notification badges on the Software Update indicating that there is an update available for your Mac.

Step 3. Now in the software update select Update to begin the Mac update

At times as in the image below you will see a “Restart Now” button. Pressing this will start the update as you can see in the middle there is a message letting you know an update is available.

How to Automatically update macOS

If you never want to worry about following the process of updating your Mac. If you simply trust Apple that any software release will be vigorously tested then you have the perfect option.

In the top left-hand corner click the Apple Menu ()
From the Apple menu select System Preferences
On the system preferences select Software Update
Now in the software update check the “Automatically keep my Mac up to date” box

Many choose this option as they have complete trust in any release that Apple put out. Also, it’s a good way to never miss an important safety update.

How to Update Your Mac Operating System Video

If you are someone who prefers video then I have you covered with this simple-to-follow video on How to Update Your Mac Operating System.

Why can’t I update my Mac?

The most common reason that you will be unable to update a Mac is a lack of storage space. A Mac generally needs around 20GB available to update to the latest version. However, there are several reasons your Mac will not update and age can also play a factor.

Is my Mac too old to update?

Products are considered obsolete when they have been discontinued for 7 years. Mac says they will support an Apple product for three years after its release date. However, most Macs will keep accepting updating for 7 years.

How do I update my Mac when it says no update?

1. Try later in the day.
2. Check internet conntection
3. Make sure apple is up on their System Status page.
4. Make sure there is an update
5. Refresh your Mac by restarting.
6. Update Apple ID on your Mac.
7. Update the Mac manually.

What is the oldest Mac that can run Monterey?

The following list is all the Macs that are compatible with Monterey
‌iMac‌ – Late 2015 and later
‌iMac‌ Pro – 2017 and later
‌MacBook Air‌ – Early 2015 and later
MacBook Pro – Early 2015 and later
Mac Pro – Late 2013 and later
Mac mini – Late 2014 and later
MacBook – Early 2016 and later

Will Monterey slow down my Mac?

In some cases, an update can slow down your Mac when they are in Beta. With that said if the update is not Beta then it should not slow down the Mac. Older Macs 3 years plus can struggle with new updates and slow down.