Every September, Apple releases a new macOS. Every September, Mac users in Lagos ask me the same question: should I update?
The honest answer: probably yes, but not on day one, and not without doing one thing first.
Why You Should Update Eventually
macOS updates contain security patches that are not optional. Running an old version of macOS is increasingly like leaving a window open in a house you think is locked. Apple supports macOS versions for approximately three years. After that, security patches stop entirely.
Why Not on Day One
Major macOS releases always contain bugs. The people who update on day one are beta testers for the wider population. Wait four to six weeks. If there is a widespread serious problem, you will read about it. If not, update.
The One Thing to Do Before Any Update
Back up your Mac completely using Time Machine to an external drive, before you click Update. With a backup, a failed update is an inconvenience. Without one, it is a serious problem.
Is Your Mac Compatible?
Not every Mac can run the latest macOS. Check: Apple Menu → About This Mac. Note the model and year. Then check Apple's compatibility list for the current release.
- Wait four to six weeks after the initial release
- Back up with Time Machine before you begin
- Check that specialist applications are compatible first
- Ensure at least 20GB free disk space
- Plug in your power adapter — never update on battery
Not sure if your Mac is ready to update?
I check compatibility and run a pre-update health check before any major macOS update. Thirty minutes. Same day, in your language.
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