How to Check and Update Your Mac Operating System (OS) Version


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Keeping your Mac’s operating system (macOS) up to date is essential for performance, security, and compatibility with the latest applications. This knowledge article will guide you through checking which macOS version is installed on your computer, finding the latest version, and the steps for updating your system.

How to Check Your macOS Version

To find out which version of macOS is installed on your Mac, follow these steps:

  1. Click the Apple menu in the top left corner of your screen.
  2. Select About This Mac from the dropdown menu.
  3. A window will appear showing your Mac’s basic information and macOS version (i.e., macOS - Tahoe 26.0).

This window also displays your Mac model, processor, memory, and other useful information.

Understanding macOS Naming and Versioning

Apple names each major macOS release after a California landmark or region (i.e., Sonoma, Sequoia, Tahoe). Alongside the name, each release has a version number (i.e., macOS Tahoe is version 26.x). Minor updates use decimal points (i.e., Tahoe 26.1). When checking compatibility or searching for updates, it’s helpful to know both the name and version number.

Finding the Latest macOS Version

The most reliable way to find the current, latest version of macOS is to visit the official Apple macOS Version Support Page. On this page, you’ll find a table listing the most recent macOS versions along with their release dates and detailed information on compatibility for each Mac model. This resource is updated regularly to reflect the newest releases.

Checking Compatibility

Before updating your macOS, you should verify that your Mac supports the latest macOS version. On the Apple macOS Version Support Page mentioned above, you’ll find a compatibility chart showing which Mac models are eligible for each update. Compare your Mac’s model information (found in About This Mac) to the chart to ensure you can install the latest version.

How to Install the Latest macOS Update

For detailed instructions, visit the Knowledge Base article How to Check for Software Updates on your Mac Operating System. Here’s a summary of the process:

  1. Open System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS versions).
  2. Click General, then select Software Update.
  3. Your Mac will check for available updates. If an update is available, click Update Now or Upgrade Now to begin the installation.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions. Your Mac may restart during the process.

For further assistance, refer to Apple’s Software Update Support Page.

Staying up to date with macOS helps ensure your Mac runs smoothly, securely, and remains compatible with the latest software. For additional support related to macOS updates, contact the IT Service Desk at (334) 844-4944 or itservicedesk@auburn.edu.

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