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Software updates keeps spinning. If rebooted - still spinning

Trying to update my iMac - currently Big Sur 11.6.2. The software update “checking for updates” just keeps spinning. I’ve rebooted twice. Ideas?

iMac 21.5″ 4K, macOS 11.6

Posted on Feb 15, 2022 6:03 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Feb 15, 2022 9:29 PM

Please restart the computer in Safe Mode per the directions in the  How to use safe mode on your Mac - Apple Support link. 


Note: If you are using a wireless keyboard please either plug it in using the supplied Lightning cable that shipped with it. If you are using a legacy keyboard or a third-party keyboard that does not have re-charging abilities, please use any USB keyboard. Also note that a Safe Mode restart may require you to hold down the shift key for up to 5 minutes before the computer starts in Safe Mode. You will know it is in Safe Mode when you see “Safe Mode” in the upper right of the display.


After restarting in Safe Mode, then restart normally and test.

2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Feb 15, 2022 9:29 PM in response to susan859c

Please restart the computer in Safe Mode per the directions in the  How to use safe mode on your Mac - Apple Support link. 


Note: If you are using a wireless keyboard please either plug it in using the supplied Lightning cable that shipped with it. If you are using a legacy keyboard or a third-party keyboard that does not have re-charging abilities, please use any USB keyboard. Also note that a Safe Mode restart may require you to hold down the shift key for up to 5 minutes before the computer starts in Safe Mode. You will know it is in Safe Mode when you see “Safe Mode” in the upper right of the display.


After restarting in Safe Mode, then restart normally and test.

Feb 15, 2022 9:29 PM in response to susan859c

Please restart the computer in Safe Mode per the directions in the  How to use safe mode on your Mac - Apple Support link. 


Note: If you are using a wireless keyboard please either plug it in using the supplied Lightning cable that shipped with it. If you are using a legacy keyboard or a third-party keyboard that does not have re-charging abilities, please use any USB keyboard. Also note that a Safe Mode restart may require you to hold down the shift key for up to 5 minutes before the computer starts in Safe Mode. You will know it is in Safe Mode when you see “Safe Mode” in the upper right of the display.


After restarting in Safe Mode, then restart normally and test.

Software updates keeps spinning. If rebooted - still spinning

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