Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

can i install Big Sur if i have Catalina 12.2

how to upgrade to Big Sur from Catalina

MacBook Pro 15″, macOS 12.2

Posted on Feb 8, 2022 12:56 AM

Reply
Question marked as Best reply

Posted on Feb 8, 2022 1:43 AM

Catalina is OS X 10.15 and macOS 11 Big Sur was the next release of macOS.


You can acquire the installer from this page using Safari and it will take you to the App store for the download. Check the hardware compatibility and have a Time Machine backup.

3 replies

Feb 8, 2022 1:49 AM in response to howard611

There is some confusing information provided.


User asking to upgrade to Big Sur macOS 11 but quotes Catalina 12.2.


Catalina is macOS version 10.15.


Then User profile is showing MacBook Pro 15″, macOS 12.2 which is Monterey.


Please review and restate the question with reliable and accurate information.


On the off chance >>


Tips How to Upgrade to Big Sur 


There are several points to consider before attempting the upgrade to Big Sur. The most important is Due Diligence on the part of the User and is a Prerequisite for a smooth upgrade.  


The below points should all be consider Before attempting the upgrade.


Point # 1 - Are there pre-existing Unresolved Software Issues. They should be resolved prior to upgrading - they may carryover to Big Sur making the system unstable / unusable.


Point # 2 - Are there any AntiVirus, Disk Cleaner, Optimizers, Un-installers, etc installed which should be removed as per Developers Instructions. They are useless, unneeded, cause havoc and interfere with the normal operation of the OS and may even Corrupt the OS requiring a Reinstallation. The The Built in Security  is all that is required.


Point # 2 A - Commercial VPNs should only be used if Mandated by Corporate Head Office for working remotely. Otherwise - ones Privacy and Security touted by the VPN is suspect.


Point # 3How to get old versions of macOS  ie: Empty Space Requirements specific to the Big Sur. Apple states 35.6 GB Empty Space but suggest 50 GB


Point # 4 - Does the intended computer qualify for the upgrade.


Point # 5 - Are the installed Applications / Extensions compatible with Big Sur. Check with the Developer for compatible Apps / extension or do they offer updates. Same goes for Third Party Drivers for Printer, Scanners etc.


Point # 6 - If upgrading from Mojave and earlier versions of macOS - Remember that Big Sur does not support anything 32 bit. These include Applications, Extensions and Drivers for any devices. There is no workaround.


Point # 6A - To check for 32 bit Applications - a good application to use is Go64 - safe to use.


Point # 7 - Do I have a Rescue Plan In-Place. This comprises having 3 Backups using 2 methods and 1 Off Site incase of Theft, Loss or Natural Disasters. A Time Machine Backup  is very useful and can be used to Revert to Previous Working macOS. For additional purposes - two Tested Bootable Clones each to separate external drives. This is insurance incase the upgrades goes sideways. At least one Tested Clone and / or Time Machine Backup should be Off - Site


Point # 8  - To upgrade to Big Sur will requires a quick, stable and reliable Internet Connection - preferred method is via Ethernet Connection. 


If not available and using Wifi - move computer as close to the Access Point / Router and disconnect all other devices connected to Wifi. Want the maximum bandwidth for the computer being upgraded to Big Sur.

Feb 8, 2022 3:16 AM in response to howard611

Catalina is 10.15.7, and Big Sur follows it with 11.6.3. For clarity about the currently installed operating system, review the name and version on the Apple () menu ➝ About This Mac panel.


The age of your Mac determines the maximum operating system version you can upgrade too. See How to get old versions of macOS for the hardware requirements, and a link to the Mac App Store for Big Sur, if your hardware supports it.


You will want to verify with the product vendors if your existing third-party applications are supported on Big Sur, and that goes for any printer/scanner vendor and their macOS drivers. Also, if a networked printer, check if it is supported by Apple's built-in AirPrint, which would not require drivers from the printer vendor.


Before any upgrade, perform a Time Machine backup on the old operating system and then set that drive aside, not using it for a Time Machine backup of the new operating system.

can i install Big Sur if i have Catalina 12.2

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple ID.