Keeping macOS Tahoe up to date keeps your Mac secure and adds the latest features and fixes. This guide shows you how to check for updates and install them, and how to turn on automatic updates so you don’t have to remember.

1. Open Software Update in macOS Tahoe

  1. Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of the screen.
  2. Select System Settings.
  3. In the sidebar, click General.
  4. Click Software Update.

macOS will check for available updates. This may take a few seconds.

2. Install Available Updates

If an Update Is Available

  1. You’ll see the update name (for example, “macOS Tahoe 15.x.x”) and a short description.
  2. Click Update Now (or Upgrade Now for a major new version).
  3. If asked, enter your Mac login password.
  4. Your Mac may download the update first, then restart to install it.
  5. Do not turn off your Mac or close the lid until the update is finished. You’ll see a progress bar or “Your Mac will restart when the update is complete.”

If No Update Is Available

You’ll see a message like “Your Mac is up to date.” You’re on the latest version of macOS Tahoe that your Mac supports.

You can let macOS Tahoe install updates automatically so you don’t have to check manually.

  1. Go to System Settings → General → Software Update.
  2. Click Automatic Updates (or i next to it in some versions).
  3. Turn on Check for updates so your Mac checks for new software.
  4. Optionally turn on Download new updates when available so they’re ready to install.
  5. Optionally turn on Install macOS updates so major system updates install automatically (your Mac may restart on its own).
  6. Optionally turn on Install application updates from the App Store so App Store apps update automatically.

Many users prefer at least “Check for updates” and “Download new updates when available,” then they choose when to restart for the install.

4. Update Apps from the App Store

macOS system updates are separate from App Store app updates. To update your apps:

  1. Open the App Store (from the Dock or via Spotlight: Command + Space, type “App Store”).
  2. In the sidebar, click Updates.
  3. Click Update next to an app, or Update All to update everything listed.
  4. Enter your Apple ID password if prompted.

5. If an Update Fails or Gets Stuck

  • Restart and try again: Click the Apple menu → Restart…, then go back to System Settings → General → Software Update and try Update Now again.
  • Enough space: Updates need free space. If your disk is full, free up storage and try again.
  • Stable connection: Use a reliable Wi‑Fi or wired connection; large updates can fail on weak or interrupted networks.
  • Time: Major updates can take 30 minutes or more. Leave your Mac plugged in and don’t force it off.

Conclusion

Use System Settings → General → Software Update to check for and install macOS Tahoe updates. Turn on automatic updates so your Mac stays current with minimal effort, and use the App Store Updates tab to keep your apps up to date as well.