System update problem

I just tried do a system update and at the end it said - Preferences Error Could not load Software Update preference pane. Why will it not update?

iMac 21.5″

Posted on Oct 27, 2023 11:54 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Oct 27, 2023 3:17 PM

I've had better luck from the Safe Mode because I evidently have some 3rd party software that interferes with the downloading and installing so try the following:

#1 - boot into Safe Mode according to Start up your Mac in safe mode - Apple Support.

NOTE: Safe Mode boot can take up to 3-5 minutes as it's doing the following; 
• Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair directory issues, if needed
• Loads only required kernel extensions (prevents 3rd party kernel/extensions from loading)
• Prevents Startup Items and Login Items from opening automatically
• Disables user-installed fonts 
• Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and other system cache files


#2 - go to the System/Software Update preference pane and begin the download.


#3 - run the installer from the Safe Mode.

1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Oct 27, 2023 3:17 PM in response to conesuslke

I've had better luck from the Safe Mode because I evidently have some 3rd party software that interferes with the downloading and installing so try the following:

#1 - boot into Safe Mode according to Start up your Mac in safe mode - Apple Support.

NOTE: Safe Mode boot can take up to 3-5 minutes as it's doing the following; 
• Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair directory issues, if needed
• Loads only required kernel extensions (prevents 3rd party kernel/extensions from loading)
• Prevents Startup Items and Login Items from opening automatically
• Disables user-installed fonts 
• Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and other system cache files


#2 - go to the System/Software Update preference pane and begin the download.


#3 - run the installer from the Safe Mode.

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System update problem

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