Macintosh Operating System Updates

As new security threats and bugs emerge, Apple Computer releases security updates that you should apply immediately. Apple also releases enhancements to the Operating System and other products, such as Java, through the Software Update feature. We recommend you configure Software Update to automatically check for updates weekly.

Performing updates on your computer requires an Internet connection, preferably a high speed one such as that provided by a cable modem or DSL. Each update can take 10-15 minutes and the entire process could take as long as an hour, depending on how many updates are required. If do not have an Internet connection, or you have a slow dial-up connection, and you plan to bring your computer to campus, please return to this step on the CD immediately when you come to school and connect to the Emmanuel network.

  1. Go to the blue apple in the upper left menu bar. From the drop down menu, select "System Preferences."

  2. Click Software Update

  3. Under the "Update Software" tab, select "Check for updates" and leave the drop-down box set to "Weekly." Now your Macintosh automatically checks for updates every week. Click Check Now to check for updates now.

  4. The Software Update dialog box appears and your machine checks to see what updates are available for your system. When it's finished, it indicates how many items are to be installed. Click Install.

  5. You are prompted to authenticate as an administrator in order to complete the software installation. Enter your username and password, then click OK.

  6. After reading any licensing agreements, click Agree.

  7. The updates begin downloading, and then install. If your Internet connection is interrupted during the download, simply start over with step #1. Your computer continues the download where it left off.

  8. When prompted, restart your computer.

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