How to Check Your macOS Version and Update macOS

🍎 How to Check Your macOS Version and Update macOS
Keep your NEO-issued Mac secure and running smoothly by finding your current macOS version and installing the latest updates.
📋 Before You Begin
  • You must be signed in to your Mac with your NEO A&M College account or an administrator account.
  • Your Mac must be connected to the internet to download updates.
  • Make sure your Mac is plugged in before starting a major update.
  • Save and close all open documents before installing updates — your Mac will restart.
🍎 Check Your Current macOS Version⏱ ~30 seconds

There are two quick ways to find which version of macOS your computer is running.

Method A – Apple Menu (Fastest)

  1. Click the Apple menu () in the top-left corner of your screen.
  2. Select About This Mac.
  3. A window opens showing your macOS version name (e.g., Sonoma, Ventura) and version number (e.g., 14.4.1).
  4. You will also see your Mac model, chip type, and serial number.

Method B – System Settings

  1. Click the Apple menu () and select System Settings.
  2. Click General in the left sidebar, then click About.
  3. Your macOS version is shown at the top.
💡 Tip: Knowing your exact version number is essential when contacting the IT Help Desk or checking software compatibility.
⬇️ Check for and Install Updates⏱ ~5–30 minutes

Follow these steps to check for available updates and install them.

  1. Click the Apple menu () in the top-left corner.
  2. Select System Settings (or System Preferences on older versions).
  3. Click General, then click Software Update.
  4. macOS will check for available updates. This may take a moment.
  5. If updates are available, click Update Now to install them.
  6. If prompted, enter your administrator password and click OK.
  7. When ready, click Restart Now to complete the installation.
  8. After restarting, your Mac will finish the installation (5–30 minutes depending on size).
💡 Tip: A badge will appear on the System Settings icon in your Dock when updates are waiting.
⚠️ Warning: Do not close the lid or shut down your Mac while an update is installing. Keep your device plugged in until complete.
🔄 Enable Automatic Updates⏱ ~1 minute

Turning on automatic updates ensures your Mac stays current without needing to check manually.

  1. Click the Apple menu () and select System Settings.
  2. Click General, then click Software Update.
  3. Click the ⓘ button next to Automatic updates.
  4. Turn on: Check for updates, Download new updates when available, Install macOS updates, and Install Security Responses and system files.
  5. Click Done.
💡 Tip: Enabling automatic updates is highly recommended for all NEO campus computers to ensure the latest security patches are always applied.
🚀 Major macOS Upgrades⏱ ~30–60 minutes

A major macOS upgrade (e.g., Ventura to Sonoma) replaces your operating system. These are larger downloads and take longer.

  1. Go to Apple menu > System Settings > General > Software Update.
  2. If a new version is available, click Upgrade Now.
  3. The installer will download — this may take 30+ minutes depending on your connection.
  4. Once downloaded, click Continue and follow the on-screen prompts.
  5. Your Mac will restart one or more times. Leave it on and plugged in throughout.
  6. After the upgrade, sign in and verify your apps and files are intact.
⚠️ Important: Before a major upgrade on a NEO-managed device, check with the IT Help Desk to confirm compatibility with campus software.
🙋 Still Need Help?

If you are unsure which macOS version your device should be running, or if an update fails to install, the IT Help Desk is here to assist.

📞 Phone: (918) 540-6099
📧 Email: neosuport@neo.edu
🚶 Walk-in: IT Department, Library Administration, 2nd Floor, Room 216
🕐 Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
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