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How do I update my software, when there isn't one avaiable?

How do I update my software, when there isn't one avaiable?

Posted on Apr 6, 2021 5:21 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Apr 6, 2021 5:31 PM

“Updates” are small changes and expected to be compatible with installed apps. What Apple calls “upgrades” are larger changes, and upgrades can and sometimes do break apps. Apple doesn’t offer upgrades quite as easily as updates; you have to specifically request upgrades.


Here’s how to perform an upgrade to an older version: How to get old versions of macOS - Apple Support


This if you want to upgrade to Mojave 10.14 (last version with 32- and 64-bit support) or to Catalina 10.15. Or to Big Sur 11, the current version.


How to upgrade to macOS Big Sur - Apple Support


This if your particular Mac supports these upgrades, as older Macs might not be able to upgrade past High Sierra 10.13.


If you upgrade to Catalina 10.15 or later, use the Go64 tool to find apps you’ll need to upgrade, or re-purchase, or replace, or retire. This will include Microsoft Office 2011 and earlier, for instance.


Have a complete backup created prior to the upgrade, as that can be your only reasonable means to revert, should ye upgrade fail, or should some critical app not function.

2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Apr 6, 2021 5:31 PM in response to jkrens

“Updates” are small changes and expected to be compatible with installed apps. What Apple calls “upgrades” are larger changes, and upgrades can and sometimes do break apps. Apple doesn’t offer upgrades quite as easily as updates; you have to specifically request upgrades.


Here’s how to perform an upgrade to an older version: How to get old versions of macOS - Apple Support


This if you want to upgrade to Mojave 10.14 (last version with 32- and 64-bit support) or to Catalina 10.15. Or to Big Sur 11, the current version.


How to upgrade to macOS Big Sur - Apple Support


This if your particular Mac supports these upgrades, as older Macs might not be able to upgrade past High Sierra 10.13.


If you upgrade to Catalina 10.15 or later, use the Go64 tool to find apps you’ll need to upgrade, or re-purchase, or replace, or retire. This will include Microsoft Office 2011 and earlier, for instance.


Have a complete backup created prior to the upgrade, as that can be your only reasonable means to revert, should ye upgrade fail, or should some critical app not function.

How do I update my software, when there isn't one avaiable?

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