System updates are vital to your Mac, as they aim to improve your computer’s security and overall health. Sometimes, however, you may want to delay installing a new update until you’re sure it won’t cause major problems. You also don’t want your machine to update when you’re in the middle of something.
Fortunately, there are many options for controlling how and when your Mac updates. Want to choose when to install updates? You can be sure that your device is not automatically updated. Don’t want to worry about updates? Your Mac will take care of it.
To manage your Mac’s updates:
- Click the Apple icon in the upper left corner of the menu bar
- Click on “About This Mac”. If you’re wondering, you’ll be able to see what version of macOS you’re using.
- Next, select “Software Update”. All available updates will appear in this window.
- You can check the box next to “Automatically keep my Mac up to date” to keep your device automatically up to date.
- If you don’t want your Mac to update automatically and the box is checked, uncheck it. You will see a popup asking if you are sure. Click “Turn Off Automatic Updates” and enter your password when asked.
- You can click “Advanced…” in the Software Update window for more options, such as whether your Mac will automatically check for updates, download and install them. You can also choose whether your device automatically updates your apps (as opposed to system and security updates).
