Updating Mac Software using iPhone hotspot

I don't have wifi. I tether my Mac to my iPhone data connection. A previous thread said I'm able to update Mac software using my iPhone hotspot if I have 5G and make one change to my settings. I now have 5G. What is that change to my settings? Thanks for your help

iMac 21.5″, macOS 10.13

Posted on Sep 27, 2022 5:53 PM

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6 replies

Sep 29, 2022 10:15 AM in response to Jack-19

I don't see an error. Since I don't have wifi, I don't have the option to download updates. That is, if I've understood previous posts correctly. That's why I wanted to know what setting I need to change so that my tethered internet connection allows the same degree of updating that wifi does. New operating systems, automatic, behind-the-scenes security and stabilities updates, etc. I don't want to loose security and functionality as a result of not having wifi.


I read several posts that said updates to my Mac require a wifi connection (can't do it when tethered to my phone's internet service). I would like to overcome this problem.


Does my concern make sense?


Thanks again for your help!

Sep 29, 2022 10:35 AM in response to Jack-19

Thanks helpful! 2 follow-up questions, then (really exposing my ignorance, here :) -


  1. Did you just confirm that the Security Update 2020-006 is installed on my Mac? Or is there some way I can confirm this?
  2. Can you confirm whether or not a tethered internet connection limits updating at all anymore? Is that a thing of the past?


Sounds like I'm on borrowed time with this Mac. Besides diminishing functionality in a few areas, it still works great!

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Updating Mac Software using iPhone hotspot

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