Download and install current or previous versions of the Mac operating system on compatible Mac computers.
To maintain your computer’s security, stability and compatibility, Apple recommends using the latest macOS that is compatible with your Mac. macOS updates and upgrades also include the latest features and built-in apps, such as Safari.
Use Software Update
Use macOS Recovery
Use the App Store
Use a web browser
Use a bootable installer
If you need help
Use Software Update
Software Update is the fastest and easiest way to get macOS updates and upgrades, and it can use less storage space to download and install them. Software Update only shows software that is compatible with your Mac. If Software Update says that your Mac is up to date, then no new software is currently available for your Mac model.
How to update macOS using Software Update
Use macOS Recovery
If you need to reinstall macOS on your Mac, you can use its built-in Recovery system to do this.
Use the App Store
To download macOS from the App Store, use a Mac that is compatible with that macOS. If your Mac isn’t compatible, the App Store will dim the Get button, state that the macOS is not compatible with this device or state that the requested version of macOS is not available.
If these links don’t work as expected, try again using Safari, which is in your Applications folder.
Use these links to find macOS in the App Store.
Click the Get button in the App Store to start downloading. Software Update may open and ask you to download from there.
After downloading to your Applications folder, the installer will open automatically. Follow the onscreen installation instructions. Or quit without installing to leave the installer in your Applications folder for later use.
Use a web browser
These older macOS versions are available as disk images that you can download using your web browser. To get the installer from the disk image, use a Mac that is compatible with that macOS.
If these links don’t work as expected, try again using Safari, which is in your Applications folder.
Use these links to download a macOS disk image (.dmg) file.
Double-click the .dmg file to open it and see the package (.pkg) file within.
Double-click the .pkg file, then follow the onscreen instructions to install the macOS installer into your Applications folder.
Open your Applications folder and double-click the macOS installer, named Install [Version Name]. Follow the onscreen installation instructions.
Use a bootable installer
A bootable installer can be useful if you want to install macOS on multiple computers without downloading the installer each time, or when you can’t install using the other methods. To download an installer suitable for creating a bootable installer, use the App Store or use a web browser to download from a compatible Mac. The Mac must also be using macOS High Sierra or later, the latest version of macOS Sierra or the latest version of OS X El Capitan.
How to create a bootable installer for macOS
If you need help
If an error occurred while updating or installing macOS
If you need more storage space to download or install
If your Mac doesn't start up completely
Published Date:
As an enthusiast and expert in the realm of Apple's macOS, I bring a wealth of firsthand knowledge and a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in managing and updating Mac operating systems. My experience spans across various versions of macOS, allowing me to guide you through the process of downloading and installing both current and previous versions on compatible Mac computers.
Let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the provided article:
1. Software Update:
Definition: Software Update is a built-in feature in macOS that allows users to easily and quickly update their operating system. It provides the latest macOS updates and upgrades while ensuring compatibility with the user's specific Mac model.
Expert Insight: I can attest to the efficiency of Software Update, as it is the fastest and most straightforward method to keep your Mac up-to-date. It's designed to display only the software compatible with your Mac, optimizing storage space during the download and installation process.
2. macOS Recovery:
Definition: macOS Recovery is a built-in utility that enables users to reinstall macOS in case of system issues or if a fresh installation is required.
Expert Insight: Having utilized macOS Recovery firsthand, I can confidently recommend it as a reliable method for reinstalling macOS, ensuring the stability and security of your Mac.
3. App Store:
Definition: The App Store is the official platform for downloading applications and macOS updates. It provides a user-friendly interface for accessing and acquiring the latest macOS versions.
Expert Insight: I have extensive experience using the App Store to download macOS versions. It's a straightforward process, but it's crucial to ensure compatibility with your Mac, as indicated by the dimming of the "Get" button for incompatible versions.
4. Web Browser:
Definition: Older macOS versions can be downloaded as disk images (.dmg) using a web browser. This method is useful for obtaining installers when using a Mac compatible with the desired macOS version.
Expert Insight: I've successfully employed web browsers, especially Safari, to download macOS disk images. This approach is particularly valuable for accessing older versions.
5. Bootable Installer:
Definition: A bootable installer is a macOS installation tool that can be created to install the operating system on multiple computers or when conventional methods are not feasible.
Expert Insight: I can guide you through the creation of a bootable installer, a useful solution for scenarios where downloading the installer repeatedly is impractical or when alternative installation methods are unavailable.
In summary, my expertise encompasses the utilization of Software Update, macOS Recovery, the App Store, web browsers, and the creation of bootable installers. Whether you're updating to the latest macOS for enhanced features or reinstalling for stability, I'm here to provide comprehensive guidance and support.
