Computer: Installing MacOS Updates or Version Upgrades

Summary

Use Software Update to install software updates for MacOS and its built-in apps, including Safari. Also use Software Update to install operating system version upgrades when available.

Important: ET&S always recommends you do not store data locally on your computer and that you use OneDrive or another USNH network storage location to store your files so your data is backed up. If at any time your hard drive were to fail, ET&S and other data recovery providers may not be able to recover your data as all office computer hard drives are encrypted. To learn more about OneDrive, visit our knowledge articles on OneDrive: Accessing/Logging in to OneDrive and OneDrive: Synchronizing Files/Folders .

 

How to use Software Update

Step 1 - From the Apple menu in the corner of your screen, choose System Settings.

Step 2 - In System Settings, click General on the left side of the window. Then click Software Update on the right

Step 3 - Software Update then checks for new software. 

  • If Software Update says that your Mac is up to date, then no new software is currently available for your Mac model. Software Update shows only software that is compatible with your Mac.
  • If Software Update finds a new software update, click the button to install it. The button might be named Update Now, Install Now, or Restart Now, for example. You might then be asked to enter your administrator password.

Step 4 - If the Software Update button says "Upgrade Now", that is an operating system Upgrade to a new version of MacOS. You should plan for when to perform the upgrade. See more details below. Note: Version Upgrades can take up to an hour to complete, please plan accordingly.

 

How to Upgrade to a new MacOS version

If Software Update offers Upgrade Now, then that new MacOS version will work on your Apple Mac model. This is an in-place upgrade, meaning your applications, settings, and locally stored data should carry through the upgrade process. Some applications and settings may not function once the upgrade is complete, but those are rare cases. You are strongly encouraged to make sure any locally stored data is backed up elsewhere before beginning the upgrade process.

Important: ET&S always recommends you do not store data locally on your computer and that you use OneDrive or another USNH network storage location to store your files so your data is backed up. If at any time your hard drive were to fail, ET&S and other data recovery providers may not be able to recover your data as all office computer hard drives are encrypted. To learn more about OneDrive, visit our knowledge articles on OneDrive: Accessing/Logging in to OneDrive and OneDrive: Synchronizing Files/Folders .

An operating system upgrade may take up to an hour or more to complete. Be sure to:

  • plug your computer into power,
  • save all work, and
  • close all applications prior to installing any upgrade.  

Note: Upgrades can take up to an hour to complete, please plan accordingly. 

When ready, click the Upgrade Now button and follow any on-screen instructions. Your computer may need to restart as part of the process.

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Further Readings

OneDrive: Accessing/Logging in to OneDrive

OneDrive: Synchronizing Files/Folders

 

Need additional help?

Visit the Technology Help Desk Support page to locate your local campus contact information or to submit an online technology support request.  For password issues you must call or visit the Help Desk in person.  

 

 

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