Update macOS on Mac
To maintain your computer's security, stability, and compatibility, Apple recommends using the latest macOS that is compatible with your Mac. macOS updates and upgrades also include the latest features and built-in apps such as Safari, Mail, and Apple Music. Use Software Update to keep your Mac up to date.
Use Software Update
Software Update finds, downloads, and installs Apple software updates and upgrades* that are compatible with your Mac model. Before installing new software, it's a good idea to back up your Mac.
Open Software Update:
From the Apple menu in the corner of your screen, choose System Settings. In the window that opens, click General in the sidebar, then click Software Update on the right. (In earlier versions of macOS, choose Apple menu > System Preferences instead, then click Software Update.)
Or use Spotlight
to search for “Software Update,” then click to open it from the search results. If your Mac doesn’t have Software Update, learn about other ways to download and install macOS.
When Software Update opens, it automatically checks for new software. If new software is available for your Mac, click the Update or Upgrade button to download and install it.
If new software is not available for your Mac, Software Update says that your Mac is up to date. If you want to check again, click Check for Update (if available), press Command-R on your keyboard, or close and reopen Software Update.
Before installation begins, you’re asked to enter your administrator password. It's the password you use to log in to your Mac. Forgot your password?
Allow installation to complete without putting your Mac to sleep or closing its lid. During installation, your Mac might restart and show a progress bar or blank screen several times.
Learn more:
How to use Software Update settings to control which updates your Mac downloads or installs automatically.
If you don’t see an update
Software Update shows only software that is compatible with your Mac model. If your Mac isn't compatible with an update or upgrade, Software Update doesn't offer it to you and says that your Mac is up to date. These are the most recent macOS upgrades and the computers that can use them:
What’s new in the latest updates
* An update is a newer version of the currently installed macOS or other software, such as an update from macOS Sonoma 14.5 to macOS Sonoma 14.6. An upgrade is a major new version of macOS with a new name, such as an upgrade from macOS Sonoma to macOS Sequoia.
