How to Upgrade Mac System Software

Last Updated: March 11, 2021

Upgrading system software on your Macintosh computer changes the way certain programs and processes behave. System upgrades are used to fix bugs and errors that had previously been experienced. Upgrades are also used to introduce new functions into existing programs and processes. In each version of Mac OS X, updates are accessed through the Apple menu. However, the method for opening the "Software Update" menu differs slightly when utilizing newer and older versions of OS X. Updates can also be installed using standalone installers. See the steps below for upgrading your particular version of Mac software.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Upgrading Mac System Software With OS X 10.3 and Later

1
Open the Apple menu.
2
Click the Software Update option.

Advertisement
3
Choose the upgrades you wish to install in the Software Update menu.
4
Click Install.
- When using OS X 10.3, click "Check Now."
- Versions of Mac OS X 10.5 and later have the ability to run software update checks automatically. These checks can run in the background. When a software upgrade is available, the computer will prompt you.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Upgrading Mac System Software With OS X 10.2.8 and Earlier

1
Open the Apple menu.
2
Click on System Preferences.
3
Select "Software Update" from the View menu.
4
Select "Update Now."
5
Choose the items you wish to install, then click "Install."
6
Input an administrator account name and password.
7
Restart your computer if the software update calls for it.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Upgrading Mac System Software With a Standalone Installer

1
Open your browser.
2
Go to the Apple Support Downloads website.
3
Select the software update you wish to install.
4
Click Download.

Community Q&A

Question

Can I upgrade my 10.8 to a 10.9?

Fancyghost

Community Answer

No. It's only possible to upgrade to the latest version of MacOS, unless you you use an unofficial method. A simple online search "how to install old versions of MacOS" should help.

Warnings

Software updates for apps will not show up in the in the Software Update window. In order to update apps, you must access App Store. Click on Updates at the top of the window. All available updates will be shown in the window.

⧼thumbs_response⧽
Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0