Regularly updating macOS is an important step to ensure that Mac computers can run safely and efficiently. However, many users have concerns or questions about this process.
Why you need to update your system
During macOS updates, the first priority is to address security risks. Apple will launch multiple security updates every year to fix discovered system vulnerabilities. If not installed in time, the computer may face the risk of malware or network attacks.
These updates also include improvements to system stability. The new version will fix various errors existing in the old version, thereby reducing application crashes or system lags, thereby improving the smoothness of daily use.
Necessary preparations before updating
Before clicking the button called "Update", the most critical step is to back up your data. You can use the "Time Machine" function of macOS itself to back up the entire system to an external hard drive. Such an operation can ensure the security of personal files without any problems when the update fails.
Make sure your Mac is connected to a stable power source and Wi-Fi network. Due to the large file size of the system update, the download and installation process takes a long time. If there is a power outage or network disconnection in the middle, the installation may fail and the system files may even be damaged.
How to initiate software updates
When performing an update operation, in most cases related matters are carried out in the "System Settings" module. If macOS Ventura and above are applicable, you must first click the Apple menu button in the upper left corner of the screen, then enter the interface called "System Settings", and then look for a specific sub-item labeled "Software Update" under the item option called "General".
The system can automatically check for available updates. If a new version is detected, the interface will display the specific details and size of the update. Users only need to click the "Update Now" button and enter the administrator password as prompted, so that the download can begin.
Handle common issues with updates
During the update process, the Mac screen may turn black or display a progress bar, and it may automatically restart several times. This is a normal phenomenon. Do not force the machine to shut down. The entire process can take either half an hour or several hours, depending on the size of the update and the performance of your computer.
If you encounter incompatibility in the software after updating, for example, some old versions of professional tools cannot be opened, you can go to the official website of the software to see if there is a version that is suitable for the new system. For critical software, it is best to confirm its compatibility before updating.
Compatibility and hardware limitations
Not all Mac models can be upgraded to the latest macOS version. Apple generally stops supporting major system upgrades for old hardware that is more than five years old. For example, the latest system in 2(X) may no longer support some MacBookpros released in 2(X) .
This user can check the highest system version that can be upgraded for a specific model on the "Technical Support" page on Apple's official website. If the device can no longer be upgraded, then more attention should be paid to the last batch of security updates it can receive, in order to extend the safe use cycle.
Updated inspections and optimizations
After a successful upgrade, it is recommended to first check the system version number in "About This Mac" to ensure that the update has been completely installed. You can then turn on the "Software Update" setting and check again to see if there are any subsequent supplementary update packages to be installed.
Take some time to familiarize yourself with the major functional changes that will occur as a result of the introduction of the new system. For example, the front-end scheduling function and screen sharing function added in the update process in recent years can significantly change the way of multitasking. Appropriate adjustments to system settings can enable new features to serve actual working conditions more quickly.
Which version of macOS is your Mac running? During the past system updates, did you encounter any troubles or surprises that left a deep impression on you? Welcome to share your past experiences in the comment area. If you feel this article is helpful, please like it to support it.
