Overview
Apple releases software updates for computers between major upgrades of macOS versions. It is recommended that your computer is set to receive security and operating system updates regularly and automatically. When a software update is available, the system will auto-send notifications to your Mac device. You can choose to install the update right now or at another time.
Users of college-issued hardware may not be able to edit some of these settings. Software updates on these computers are managed by Information Technology.
Please note that Apple generally only provides security updates for the current version of macOS and the next most recent version. If you are using an older version of macOS, it is recommended that you update.
Steps
MacOS 13 Ventura or newer
- Click the Apple menu
in the top left corner.
- Click System Settings.
- Click General from the sidebar, then click Software Update on the right.
- If there is an available update, click the Update Now button to download and install it.
MacOS 12 Monterey or older
- Click the Apple menu
in the top left corner.
- Click System Preferences.
- Click Software update.
- If there is an available update, click the Update Now button to download and install it.