Older operating systems and applications can cause many problems, including various bugs and security issues. For this reason, a lot of emphasis is placed on updating Mac OS and other accompanying software by Apple.
But how do you make sure the operating system and applications installed are up to date? Unfortunately, there is no single way to update all parts of the software; But by combining different methods, an acceptable result can be achieved.
Mac Os update
Apple periodically releases updates for the Mac OS that incorporate a variety of changes and should be installed on supported devices as soon as possible. New updates can also fix security vulnerabilities and protect users from attacks or malware. Finally, improving the overall stability and performance will be another benefit of installing newer versions of the operating system.
Some of the new features are only available to users through updates. For example, Apple introduced the SharePlay feature to Mac devices with the introduction of the Mac OS 12.1; The feature was first introduced at WWDC 2021 and many users were looking forward to it. Some updates focus specifically on hardware and can make changes to various parts, such as the trackpad or partition recovery.
Download and install the Mac OS update
How to update the operating system can vary depending on the version used by Mac OS. In the past, updates were available through the Mac App Store, but since the release of the Mojave Mac OS, Apple has introduced a new way to download updates within System Preferences. The following are both methods; But before doing anything, it is better to make a backup with the help of a Time Machine, to prevent the loss of any necessary and sensitive information.
Updates in Mojave and newer versions
If you are using a newer version of Mojave Mac OS X, you can get updates by going to the Software Update section in System Preferences. By installing the latest update, not only will you be sure that the operating system is up to date, but all the programs that come with it will be upgraded if possible.
In the first step, click System Preferences by clicking on the Apple logo in the top bar. Now go to Software Update. New releases for your device will now be reviewed. If a new version is available, you can download and install it by clicking Update Now. You can also click on More Info to get more details for each update. If you are interested in receiving and installing future updates automatically, check the Automatically keep my Mac up to date option.
If there is no new version to download in the Software Update window, you can be sure that the operating system and system software are up to date, including Safari apps, messages, email, music, photos, Facebook, and calendar. Other installed titles should be updated through the Updates section in the App Store. In the same way, you will be able to migrate to later versions of Mac OS.
Update on pre-Mojave versions
If your device is running pre-Mac OS Mojave versions, you will not see the Software Update option in System Preferences. To get new versions of the operating system, first, open the Mac App Store via Spotlight or the folder app and click on the Updates tab.
Apple updates are typically placed at the top of the list and will be grouped together. By clicking on the More option, you can access the list of items in each group and install each one independently. Click Install to download the update and then install it.
Software update
The methods mentioned above allow the user to upgrade to newer versions of Mac OS; But updating programs along with the operating system is also very important. Software installed through the Mac App Store can be updated using the Updates section in the left menu. By default, auto-update is disabled for such applications and must be updated manually.
To activate the automatic software update, first, go to the App Store and then from the Preferences section in the top menu, activate the Automatic Updates mode. If you have installed apps from sources other than the App Store, you should look for a new version by visiting the developer site. You will also usually be able to notify the release of new packages by running the program, clicking on its title, and selecting Check for Updates.
Most apps notify the user when new updates are released, and some, like Google’s Chrome browser, automatically install new versions. However, some older applications may need to be manually updated. It is recommended to stay away from software that promises to update other applications; Because it is a common way to install malware.
Delay in Mac OS update
There are several reasons not to migrate to newer versions of Mac OS. In this case, only security updates will be applied to the current version and there will be no news of new features and capabilities. The most important factor for delaying operating system updates is software incompatibility. As a result, if you use essential software on your device, be sure to make sure it is compatible with the new version before updating.
Visiting the developer site to find out about this is the best way. Apple releases a major update to Mac OS every year, and a number of apps will not work on it until the patch is released. Of course, such a situation has decreased in recent years, but it still seems possible.
Mac OS General Trial Version
Apple’s public trial version of the Mac OS has been available for users over the past few years, allowing for pre-release software updates. To register for this plan, you must visit the Apple Beta Software Program website. Once logged in with your Apple ID, you will be able to download the general trial versions via Software Update in System Preferences.
General beta versions are more stable than developer versions offered by Apple; However, it should be noted that their development is not complete and you may encounter software problems. Note that if you are not used to backing up through machine time, it is better not to use the general trial version; Because there is a risk of data loss and the need to reinstall the operating system.
Hidden malware in updates
In 2016, the Transmission Mac Torrent client was infected with ransomware, and later that year it was targeted by other malware. The main way to spread malware during the attack was to use software updates. Although the manufacturers took swift action to prevent further system contamination; But a number of users had problems with the attack.
Usually, relying on updated installation packages can be dangerous, and unfortunately, they are not detectable in the early stages. This is another good reason to back up the data on your device. Of course, updates released through the Mac App Store are reviewed by Apple, and we can be sure that they work properly. Store programs are also included in the sandbox to prevent it from spreading in the event of a problem. However, if you care about the security of your device, it is best not to install them until one week after the release of the new updates.
Source: MakeUseOf
