How To Install macOS Updates

Question

How do I install MacOS updates on my Bowdoin Mac?

Environment

These directions will apply to macOS only. 

Resolution

There are two ways to install software updates. Installing them before you are prompted and installing them after you are prompted. 

Install macOS updates before you are prompted

1. Save anything you may be working on as you may be prompted to restart. 
2. Click on the Apple menu in the upper left corner of your screen and choose System Preferences.
3. Click on the Software Update icon.
4. Click Update Now and follow any prompts. 

Install macOS updates after you are prompted

1. When you see the message below you can either click Update Device or I Underst
2. If you you click I Understand there will be a drop down menu in the bottom right that asks how long you want to defer the prompt.
   • Choose the amount of time you want to defer and the window will close.
   • After the period of time you chose, you will be prompted again with the same window to install the update.
3. If you choose Update Device another window will pop up that looks something like this.
   
4. Click Update Now and follow any prompts.

Installing updates after the deadline

• If you don't install the updates until the deadline you will not be able to defer and will see a message that takes up your entire screen. 

• You must choose Update Device and another window will pop up that looks something like this.

• Click Update Now and follow any prompts.

If you need further assistance, please contact the Bowdoin College Service Desk