Updating your macOS is crucial for maintaining the security, performance, and functionality of your Mac. Whether you are using your Mac for work, school, or personal tasks, ensuring your operating system is up-to-date will keep it running smoothly and securely. macOS High Sierra, released in 2017, brought a range of new features and improvements to the Mac experience. Even though newer macOS versions are available, many users still operate on High Sierra for various reasons, such as hardware limitations or specific software compatibility.
In guide, we will walk you through the steps to update your macOS High Sierra, covering preparation, the update process itself, and troubleshooting tips for any issues you may encounter.
Preparing for the Update
Before you start the update process, it is essential to prepare your Mac to ensure everything goes smoothly. Here are the key steps to take before updating:
1. Check Compatibility
Ensure that your Mac is compatible with macOS High Sierra or the newer macOS version you plan to upgrade to. Here is a list of Mac models that are compatible with macOS High Sierra:
- MacBook (Late 2009 or newer)
- MacBook Air (Late 2010 or newer)
- MacBook Pro (Mid 2010 or newer)
- Mac mini (Mid 2010 or newer)
- iMac (Late 2009 or newer)
- Mac Pro (Mid 2010 or newer)
If you plan to upgrade to a newer macOS version, visit the official Apple website to check compatibility with your Mac model.
2. Backup Your Data
Before performing any update, it is crucial to back up your data to avoid losing important files. You can use Time Machine, Apple’s built-in backup feature, to create a full backup of your system:
- Connect an external hard drive to your Mac.
- Open System Preferences and select Time Machine.
- Click Select Backup Disk and choose your external hard drive.
- Toggle the Time Machine switch to On.
Time Machine will start creating a backup of your Mac. Ensure the backup process is complete before proceeding with the update.
3. Free Up Disk Space
Updating macOS requires sufficient disk space. Make sure you have at least 15-20 GB of free space available on your Mac. You can check your available storage by going to About This Mac > Storage. If you need to free up space, consider deleting unnecessary files, uninstalling unused applications, or moving files to an external drive.
4. Ensure a Stable Internet Connection
A stable and fast internet connection is essential for downloading the macOS update. Connect your Mac to a reliable Wi-Fi network or use an Ethernet cable for a wired connection to ensure the update process is smooth and uninterrupted.
Updating macOS High Sierra
Once you have completed the preparation steps, you are ready to update your macOS High Sierra. Follow these steps to perform the update:
1. Open the App Store
Click on the App Store icon in the Dock or use Spotlight to search for it. The App Store is where you will find the macOS updates.
2. Check for Updates
In the App Store, click on the Updates tab. This will display any available updates for your apps and operating system. If a macOS update is available, you will see it listed here.
3. Download the Update
Click the Update button next to the macOS update. The update will begin downloading. The time it takes to download the update depends on your internet speed and the size of the update.
4. Install the Update
Once the download is complete, a notification will appear prompting you to install the update. Click Install to begin the installation process. Your Mac will restart, and the installation will take place. This process may take some time, so be patient and do not turn off your Mac during the update.
5. Follow the On-Screen Instructions
After the installation is complete, your Mac will restart again. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup. You may need to log in with your Apple ID and set up some preferences.
Troubleshooting Common Update Issues
While updating macOS High Sierra is usually a straightforward process, you may encounter some issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
1. Insufficient Disk Space
If you receive a message saying there is not enough disk space to install the update, free up some space by deleting unnecessary files or moving them to an external drive. You can also use the Storage Management tool in About This Mac to identify and remove large files.
2. Slow Download Speed
If the update is downloading slowly, ensure you have a stable and fast internet connection. You can try pausing and resuming the download or restarting your router to improve the connection.
3. Installation Stuck or Frozen
If the installation process seems stuck or frozen, give it some time, as the update can take a while to complete. If it remains stuck for an extended period, try restarting your Mac and initiating the update again.
4. Update Not Appearing in the App Store
If you do not see the macOS update in the App Store, make sure your Mac is connected to the internet and check for updates again. You can also visit the Apple Support website to download the update manually.
5. Post-Update Issues
If you experience issues after updating, such as apps not working correctly or performance problems, try restarting your Mac. If the issues persist, consider resetting the NVRAM and SMC (System Management Controller) to resolve any hardware-related problems.
Benefits of Updating macOS High Sierra
Updating your macOS High Sierra provides several benefits that enhance your overall Mac experience. Here are some key advantages:
1. Security Enhancements
Apple regularly releases updates to patch security vulnerabilities and protect your Mac from malware and other threats. Updating your macOS ensures you have the latest security features and protections.
2. Improved Performance
Updates often include performance improvements and optimizations, making your Mac run faster and more efficiently. This can lead to quicker startup times, smoother multitasking, and better overall performance.
3. New Features and Functionality
macOS updates introduce new features and enhancements that improve your Mac’s functionality. High Sierra, for example, brought features like the Apple File System (APFS), which enhances data management and speed, and improvements to Safari, Photos, and Mail.
4. Bug Fixes
Updates also address bugs and glitches that may affect your Mac’s performance and usability. Keeping your macOS updated ensures that you benefit from these fixes and enjoy a more stable system.
5. Compatibility with New Software
New software and applications are often designed to work with the latest macOS versions. By updating your macOS, you ensure that you can install and run the latest apps and software without compatibility issues.
Summary
Updating macOS High Sierra is a straightforward process that brings numerous benefits, including improved security, performance, and new features. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smooth update experience and keep your Mac running at its best.
Remember to prepare your Mac by checking compatibility, backing up your data, freeing up disk space, and ensuring a stable internet connection before starting the update. If you encounter any issues during the update process, use the troubleshooting tips provided to resolve them.
Keeping your macOS updated is an essential part of maintaining your Mac’s health and performance. By staying up-to-date with the latest updates, you can enjoy a secure, efficient, and feature-rich Mac experience.