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How to Install macOS Updates Safely
Edited 3 days ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team
MacmacOSUpdatesSystemSecurityInstallationSoftwareMaintenanceSettingsDevicesOfficial
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Updating your MacOS is important to maintain the security, performance, and functionality of your Mac. Although Apple often simplifies the process, there are some steps you can take to ensure that updates are installed safely. This detailed guide will help you understand how to prepare and install macOS updates effectively.
Why update macOS?
Before we dive into the updating process, let's discuss why these updates are important. Apple releases macOS updates for the following reasons:
- Security patches: These updates include security patches to protect your system from vulnerabilities.
- New features: Updates often bring new features and improvements to existing applications and system functionality.
- Bug fixes: If there are any known issues or bugs, updates usually address and improve them.
- Performance enhancements: Updates can also bring performance improvements that help your Mac run more smoothly.
Preparing for a macOS update
Preparation is key to ensuring a smooth update process. Here are some steps you can take before updating macOS:
1. Check the system requirements
Before you download any updates, make sure your Mac meets the system requirements. You can find these on Apple's website. If your Mac is too old, you won't be able to run the latest version of macOS.
2. Back up your data
Backing up your data is an important step. In case something goes wrong during the update, you'll have a copy of your important files. You can use Time Machine, which is built into macOS, to create a full system backup:
1. Connect an external hard drive to your Mac.
2. Open System Preferences > Time Machine.
3. Click "Select Backup Disk," choose your connected drive, and select "Use Disk."
4. Check "Back Up Automatically" to automate future backups.
3. Free up space
Make sure you have enough free space on your hard drive for the update. Large updates may require several gigabytes of space. To free up space:
- Delete unnecessary files: Delete files you no longer need or move them to an external drive.
- Use storage management: Go to Apple menu > About This Mac > Storage > Manage... to find the customisation option.
4. Ensure stable power and internet connection
Make sure your Mac is connected to a power source and that you have a stable internet connection. A lack of power or interruption in the download can cause the update to fail and potentially damage system files.
Updating macOS
After you prepare your system, you're ready to install updates. Follow these steps to make sure the update process goes smoothly:
1. Open System Preferences
Go to System Preferences and select Software Update. This section will display available macOS updates.
2. Download updates
Click "Update Now" or "Upgrade Now," depending on whether you're installing a standard update or upgrading to a newer version of macOS. Your Mac will begin downloading the update. This may take some time, especially if it's a major update.
3. Install updates
Once downloaded, the installation process will start automatically. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
4. Monitor the installation
During the installation process, your Mac may restart several times. Make sure your Mac stays on during the entire process. Interruptions may cause the installation to be incomplete or data to be lost.
Post-update steps
After the installation is complete, there are a few steps you can take to confirm that everything went smoothly and enjoy your updated macOS to the fullest:
1. Verify the installation
Do a quick check on your apps and settings to make sure everything is working correctly. Keep an eye out for any strange behavior or system messages that may indicate problems.
2. Enable automatic updates
To ensure you get the latest patches and updates without having to manually check, consider enabling automatic updates. You can enable this by going to System Preferences > Software Update and checking “Automatically keep my Mac up to date.”
3. Reconnect the external device
If you disconnected any external devices before the update, reconnect them and check that they are working normally.
Troubleshooting common problems
Sometimes some problems may occur during or after an update. Here are some common problems and how to resolve them:
1. The system will not boot
If your Mac won't boot after the update, try booting into Safe Mode by holding down Shift key while you start up. Safe Mode runs some diagnostics that may fix problems that occurred during installation.
2. Slow performance
After a major update, your Mac may take some time to index files, causing it to slow down temporarily. Wait a few hours and see if performance improves. If not, try restarting your Mac or resetting your NVRAM:
1. Shut down your Mac.
2. Turn it on and immediately press and hold Option + Command + P + R.
3. Release the keys after about 20 seconds.
3. Applications are not working
Make sure all your apps are updated to their latest versions. Some apps may not be compatible with the latest version of macOS until they are updated.
Conclusion
Keeping macOS updated is vital to your computer's security and performance. By following the steps in this guide, you can ensure that your updates are installed safely and without any problems. Regular backups, freeing up space, and checking for full readiness help pave the way for successful updates.
By understanding basic troubleshooting steps, you can quickly resolve any problems that arise. Always remember to keep your Mac and its applications updated regularly to enjoy the best functionality and security that macOS provides.
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