How to upgrade macOS

Overview

Apple releases a new version of macOS on a yearly basis, with new improvements and features in each release. We recommend upgrading your Mac to a newer version of macOS on a regular basis in order to avoid compatibility issues with software and stay secure.

The Help Desk supports the latest version of macOS and the two previous releases. The currently supported versions of macOS are: Big Sur, Monterey, Ventura and Sonoma. If you have an older version of macOS installed, some University managed or provided software may not work or be supported.

Details

Check macOS version

To see what version of macOS you are currently running, click on the Apple icon in the upper-left hand corner, then choose About this Mac. In the window that appears you will see the name and number of the current version of macOS installed:
macos version

How to Upgrade

Students & Personal Macs:

If your Mac is not running the latest version of macOS, and you would like to upgrade, follow these steps: click on the Apple icon in the upper-left hand corner of your screen, then choose System Preferences. In System Preferences, click on Software Update and click Upgrade Now:

upgrade macos

If no Upgrade Now option is available, review Apple's support article on how to check the compatibility of your Mac and how to download and install the upgrade through the App Store.

Faculty & Staff:

To upgrade your University Managed Mac, open the Self Service app from your Applications folder and sign in with your NetID and password. In Self Service, click Operating System on the left. Self Service will display all of the versions of macOS that are available for you to install on your Mac. If you do not see the Operating System you are looking for listed, or have issues upgrading your Mac, please contact the Help Desk.

Picture of Self Service application window with Operating System section selected

See Also

Find out which macOS your Mac is using

Update macOS on Mac

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Details

Article ID: 135608
Created
Wed 9/8/21 3:55 PM
Modified
Thu 11/16/23 2:14 PM