How to Fix macOS Not Receiving Software Updates After an Update Error

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to Fix macOS Not Receiving Software Updates After an Update Error. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

If your Mac is stuck on an update error, failing to download the latest version of macOS, or repeatedly attempting to install the same update, it is often caused by a corrupted temporary file or a temporary glitch with Apple's update servers. This guide provides steps to clear those errors and force your Mac to check for updates again.

Quick Fix Steps

1. Restart your Mac and attempt the update again.
2. Ensure your Mac is connected to a stable internet connection.
3. Check that you have sufficient free storage space on your startup disk (at least 30GB recommended for major updates).
4. Open System Settings, navigate to General > Software Update, and click Update Now.

Detailed Instructions

1. Check Available Storage

macOS updates require several gigabytes of free space to download and install. If your drive is nearly full, the update will fail.

1. Click the Apple menu () in the top-left corner of your screen.
2. Select System Settings.
3. Click General in the sidebar, then select Storage.
4. Review the storage bar. If you have less than 30GB of free space, delete unnecessary files or move large documents to an external drive.

2. Force a Software Update Check

Sometimes the update agent simply needs a manual refresh to recognise that a new version is available.

1. Open System Settings.
2. Go to General > Software Update.
3. Wait for the system to finish searching for updates.
4. If an update is listed, click Update Now or Restart Now.

3. Restart in Safe Mode (Apple Silicon Macs)

Starting your Mac in Safe Mode can clear certain system caches that may be blocking the update process.

1. Shut down your Mac completely.
2. Press and hold the power button until you see Loading startup options.
3. Select your startup disk.
4. Hold the Shift key and click Continue in Safe Mode.
5. Once in Safe Mode, go to System Settings > General > Software Update and try installing the update.
6. Restart your Mac normally to exit Safe Mode.

4. Check Apple's System Status

Verify that Apple's update servers are operational before proceeding.

1. Visit https://www.apple.com/support/systemstatus/.
2. Check that macOS Software Update shows a green status indicator.
3. If there is a service interruption, wait until Apple resolves the issue before attempting the update again.

Troubleshooting

Update is Stuck or Frozen

If the progress bar has not moved for several hours, you may need to force a shutdown.

1. Press and hold the power button for approximately 10 seconds until the Mac turns off.
2. Wait 30 seconds, then turn the Mac back on.
3. Return to System Settings > General > Software Update and attempt the installation again.

Persistent Error Messages

If you continue to see a specific error code or the update fails repeatedly, the installation files may be corrupted.

1. Ensure your Mac is plugged into a power source.
2. Attempt the update during off-peak hours to avoid server congestion.
3. If the issue persists, contact our support team and include the exact error message you are receiving.

Still Having Issues?