Use Software Update to install updates and upgrades for macOS and built-in apps, including Safari.
Use Software Update
- Open Software update:
- Select System Preferences in the Apple menu in the corner of the screen. In the content overview window that opens, click General in the content overview and then click Software Update on the right.
- If you don't see System Preferences in the Apple menu , select System Preferences instead. Then click Software Update in the window that opens.
- Can't see the Software Update settings?
- When you open Software Update, it automatically starts searching for new software.
- If there is new software for your Mac, click the button to update or upgrade. What is the difference between an update and an upgrade?
- If there is no new software for your Mac, Software Update will notify you that your Mac is up to date. Software Update only displays software that is compatible with your Mac model. For example, if your Mac is not compatible with a newer version of macOS or Safari, Software Update will not offer it to you. Which Mac models are compatible?
- Before the installation starts, you will be asked to enter your administrator password. This is the password you use to log in to your Mac. Have you forgotten your password?
- During the installation, your Mac may restart and may display a progress bar or a blank screen several times. If the installation is not successful, here's what you need to do.
This example shows Software Update in macOS Sonoma. Software update in your version of macOS may look different.
If you do not see Software update
- If you do not see an item called Software Update in the System Preferences window, click on the Spotlight icon
in the top right corner of the screen and then type Software update in the search bar. If a software update is available, you can open it from the search results. - If your older Mac doesn't include Software Update, open the App Store instead. It's in the Applications folder. Click the Updates tab in the App Store to check for updates or search for the software by name.
- See other ways you can download and install macOS.
What are updates and upgrades?
- An update is a newer version of the macOS currently installed on your computer, for example, an update from macOS Ventura 13.5 to macOS Ventura 13.6.
- An upgrade is a major new version of macOS with a new name, such as an upgrade from macOS Ventura to macOS Sonoma.