How to update macOS on your Mac

2 min read · 5 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

Updates bring security fixes and new features. A small update takes a few minutes. A new macOS version can take an hour, so start it when you do not need the Mac.

These steps are for recent versions of macOS, where the settings app is called System Settings. The pictures are simplified diagrams, not screenshots.

Step by step

1. Back up first

   Before a large upgrade, make a Time Machine backup or check that your important files are in iCloud. Updates rarely go wrong, but a backup costs little.

   Done

2. Open System Settings and click General

   Click the Apple menu in the top left corner and choose System Settings.

   Done

3. Click Software Update

   The Mac checks for updates. This needs an internet connection.

   Done

4. Click Update Now or Upgrade Now

   Update Now installs fixes for the version you already have. Upgrade Now moves to a new major version. Enter your Mac password when asked.

   Done

5. Leave the Mac to finish

   Keep a laptop plugged in and do not close the lid. The Mac restarts, sometimes more than once, and shows a progress bar.

   Done

Good to know

Click the i button next to Automatic Updates to choose what installs by itself. Keeping "Install Security Responses and system files" on is a good idea.

If the update will not download, free some storage first: how to check and free up storage on a Mac.

Very old Macs cannot install the newest macOS. Software Update only offers versions your Mac supports.

In short: System Settings, General, Software Update, Update Now. Stay plugged in until it restarts.