How to Check for Updates on Mac

Keeping your Mac updated ensures you have the latest security patches, bug fixes, and new features. macOS provides built-in tools to check for both system updates and App Store app updates automatically.

1. Open System Settings. Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen. Select System Settings from the dropdown menu. On macOS Monterey and earlier, select System Preferences instead.
2. Navigate to Software Update. In System Settings, click General in the sidebar. Then click Software Update. The system will automatically begin checking for available updates when you open this section.
3. Review available system updates. If updates are available, they will appear with details about what each update includes. Click More info to see detailed release notes. Click Update Now or Upgrade Now to install the updates.
4. Check App Store updates. Open the App Store from your Dock or Applications folder. Click Updates in the sidebar. You'll see all available app updates listed here with descriptions of what's new.
5. Install app updates. Click Update next to individual apps or click Update All to install all available app updates at once. Enter your Apple ID password or use Touch ID when prompted.
6. Restart if required. Some system updates require a restart to complete installation. Save your work and click Restart Now when prompted. App updates typically don't require a restart.