macOS · System
Choose a minor update or a full OS upgrade
When both are available, decide whether to install just the latest security or point update for your current macOS version, or perform a full upgrade to the newest major macOS release.
How to open Update Now vs. Upgrade Later
- Open System Settings
- Select General, then Software Update
- Review the available options shown, such as Update Now and Upgrade Now
- Select the appropriate option and confirm installation
What you should know
- Presented as separate 'Update Now' and 'Upgrade Now' buttons in Software Update
- Update Now applies smaller patches without changing your macOS version
- Upgrade Now moves to a newer major macOS release with larger changes
- Older Macs may only see Update Now if they're ineligible for the newest major version
Why it matters
Distinguishing between a minor update and a major upgrade matters because major upgrades introduce broader interface and compatibility changes that can affect app support, while minor updates focus narrowly on fixes and security patches with lower risk. Users who depend on specific software compatibility often prefer staying on Update Now for as long as reasonably possible, while those wanting the newest features choose Upgrade Now. Understanding this distinction avoids the common surprise of an unintended major OS upgrade.
Best practices
- Check app compatibility before choosing Upgrade Now on a work Mac
- Choose Update Now if you only need the latest security patch
- Wait a few weeks after a major release before upgrading if stability is a priority
- Back up your Mac before either type of installation
Common problems and fixes
- Only Upgrade Now is shown, no minor update option
- This happens once Apple stops issuing separate updates for your prior macOS version; back up before proceeding.
- Uncertain which option was previously chosen
- Check About This Mac for the current macOS version and build number.
- Upgrade Now is unavailable on an older Mac
- The Mac may not meet the minimum hardware requirements for the newest macOS version.
Tips and tricks
- Read release notes for the major upgrade before committing if you rely on specific pro apps
- Use Update Now to stay secure while waiting out early bugs in a brand-new major release
Frequently asked questions
Does Update Now include security fixes?
Yes, Update Now installs the latest supported patches, including security content, for your current macOS version.
Can I go back after choosing Upgrade Now?
Downgrading macOS is possible only via a full erase and reinstall from a backup, and isn't officially straightforward.
How long does Apple support the previous two macOS versions with updates?
Apple typically provides security updates for the current and two prior macOS versions, though duration varies by release.
Related settings
- Software UpdateSoftware Update in System Settings keeps macOS current with the latest security fixes, features, and app compatibility improvements. Regular updates help keep your Mac fast, stable, and protected.
- Update HistoryUpdate History lists every macOS update, security response, and Apple software update that has ever been installed on this Mac, along with the date and version number. It's the fastest way to confirm exactly what's been patched and when.
More System guides for macOS
- Automatic UpdatesThis is the set of individual toggles inside Software Update that decide whether macOS checks for updates, downloads them, and installs security responses, system files, and app updates without asking you each time. You can automate the whole pipeline or keep manual approval at any step.
- Beta UpdatesBeta Updates lets you opt this Mac into pre-release macOS software — either the public beta or, with a developer account, the developer beta — so you can try upcoming features before they're officially released. Beta software is less stable and should only run on a Mac you don't depend on daily.
- Rapid Security ResponsesRapid Security Responses are small, fast-turnaround updates Apple issues between full macOS releases to patch urgent, actively exploited security issues. They install quickly, often without a restart, and are labeled with a letter suffix like 'macOS Sonoma 14.5 (a)'.
- App Store Automatic App UpdatesControl whether apps downloaded from the Mac App Store update automatically in the background as new versions become available.
- Update Installation SchedulingFine-tune whether macOS installs downloaded updates immediately, overnight, or only after explicit confirmation, minimizing disruption during active work sessions.
- Managed Updates (Enterprise/School)See when an employer or school's device management policy is deferring, restricting, or controlling macOS update availability on a managed Mac.