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How to update Mac OS

Ventura was released in October 2022, making it the 19th major release of the operating system. With each new release, Apple improves existing features, provides even better built-in apps, and enhances the design and functionality of an already superb operating system.

Ventura comes with new apps like Stage Manager (a new way of organizing windows), and updates to preexisting ones such as Mail and FaceTime. Besides a glossy list of new features and slick new design tweaks, Mac OS updates also close up any security glitches that might arise.

The same is true with all new software updates, so it’s important to keep everything up to date for both privacy and performance benefits. We’ve got another top way to help improve your Mac’s performance and your online security using a third-party tool called CCleaner for Mac. We’ll explain more at the end of this article.

Of course, every Mac OS upgrade that Apple offers is also completely free! Let’s look at how to update Mac OS in four simple steps.

How to update Mac OS in 4 steps

Here are the steps to take to update your Mac OS:

  1. Check compatibility
  2. Back up all files and apps
  3. Free up disk space
  4. Update to new Mac OS

1. Check the compatibility of your Mac

First, make sure that your Mac will support the newest OS version. To do this, head to the Apple website where you’ll see a list of supported devices.

The earliest Macs that are compatible with Ventura were built in 2017. However, some models need to be even newer. If your Mac can’t install Ventura, it’s still worth upgrading to the latest version possible to benefit from newer features and better security settings.

2. Back up your mac

Before updating your OS, it’s important to make a backup of all files and apps. If you have a registered Apple ID, you can easily use iCloud to make a complete backup of all files and apps on your Mac before you upgrade your OS.

Apple’s Time Machine is also a great way to back up your entire Mac. It’s easy to use and provides a complete backup copy of all files, settings, and apps. However, it can take days to back up a Mac on Time Machine, especially if you have a 1-2 terabyte (TB) hard drive. So, make sure you have enough time before using Time Machine.

3. Free up space

No matter which version of Mac OS you currently run and what you’re updating to, you’ll need to have free disk space available before upgrading. Use Apple’s built-in tools to clear disk space, or even better, use a third-party app such as CCleaner for Mac to clean up your Mac before installing a new OS.

4. Update your Mac OS

Depending on which OS you currently have on your Mac, this changes how you install the latest OS offering from Apple. At the time of writing, the newest operating system is Ventura.

How to update Mac OS (in Ventura)

If you’re using Mac OS Ventura and want to check for updates, follow these steps:

  1. Click on the ‘Apple’ menu, then ‘System Settings’
  2. Click on ‘General,’ then ‘Software Update’ and your Mac will automatically check for updates

How to update Mac OS (in Mojave, Catalina, Big Sur, or Monterey)

If you’re using Mac OS Mojave, Catalina, Big Sur, or Monterey, follow these steps:

  1. Click on the ‘Apple’ menu, then ‘System Preferences,’ then click ‘Software Update’
  2. The newest OS will appear, and you can click on ‘Upgrade now’ to update your Mac OS

How to update Mac OS (in High Sierra and older OS)

If you’re using an earlier Mac OS (High Sierra and older OS), head straight to the App Store and find the Mac OS you want, and follow the instructions on how to install it.

Now you know how to update Mac OS like a pro, you can focus on keeping your Mac running at its best. The easiest and fastest way to do this is by using a third-party app like CCleaner for Mac. That’s because it takes the hassle out of cleaning, hence the name! It will find duplicate files clogging up your device, uninstall redundant apps on your Mac, and clear clutter.

As we mentioned earlier, it’s a good idea to run this software to make space before updating your Mac OS. It’s also a useful tool to run at all times and the standard CCleaner for Mac will do this for free.

If you want to take your Mac maintenance to the next level, we have CCleaner Professional for Mac. This will do all of the above plus more, including:

  • Photos - it will find blurry, badly-lit, and similar photos that most of us never get around to deleting
  • Browsers - it will remove your browsing history, keeping you more private online
  • Trash - it will automatically empty your trash for you

Why not start using CCleaner for Mac today and experience the freedom for yourself?

FAQs

  • Why can't I update my macOS?

    If you’re having trouble updating your macOS, you may need to clear some disk space. Another issue could be that your Wi-Fi connection is disconnected, so check that it’s working properly. If all this fails, restart your Mac and try to update the OS again.

  • Should I upgrade to Ventura?

    Keeping your operating system up to date helps to close out potential security issues and gives you access to new features and enhancements that Apple releases. Make sure that your device is compatible first, you back up your files, and that you have enough disk space.

  • How to update macOS to Ventura?

    Click on the ‘Apple’ menu, then ‘System Preferences,’ and click on ‘Software Update’. Your Mac will now search for available updates. The newest OS (that’s compatible with your device) will appear, and you can click on ‘Upgrade now’ to update your macOS.