Sally418 Author

Level 1

4 points

How do I update my OS? Software update isn't working

I currently have macOS Big Sur on my iMac retina 4k and when I check for updates in Software update, it just spins. What would the next OS I would download?

iMac 21.5″, macOS 11.2

Posted on Nov 24, 2023 12:52 PM

Reply

Similar questions

How to update operating system I need help in getting an update on a 27 inch desk top Mac. The Ventura OS will not download or install.
302 2
2013 27" Imac will not update anymore The latest OS version I have is 10.15.7 - it won't update beyond that. Is there anything I can do? It's a great computer, but alot of my programs need updated as well. It's sluggish all the time. I certainly can't afford to purchase another IMac, just hoping there's something that can be done to upgrade this one. Thank you so much
643 7
Software Update checking continually My software update section just continually says "checking for updates", but nothing happens. I'm on a imac Retina 4k, 21.5", 2019 and running Catalina 10.15.7. I'd like to update my OS.
227 1

9 replies

Level 10

477,265 points

Nov 24, 2023 1:04 PM in response to Sally418

The model year of an iMac is available at Apple menu > About This Mac

A mid 2014 and late 2014 iMac can be upgraded to the latest version of Big Sur macOS 11 but no later. See: How to download and install macOS - Apple Support

A late 2015 iMac can be upgraded to the latest version of Monterey macOS 12 but no later. See: How to download and install macOS - Apple Support

A 2017 iMac can be upgraded to the latest version of Ventura macOS 13 but no later. See: How to download and install macOS - Apple Support

A 2019 or later iMac can be upgraded to the current version of Sonoma macOS 14. See:How to upgrade to macOS Sonoma - Apple Support

Reply

Level 10

95,638 points

Nov 24, 2023 1:49 PM in response to Sally418

Have you installed third-party AV-ware, Protection-ware, Cleaning-ware or a VPN on your iMac?

If so, then any of those could be blocking your iMac from Updating properly.

To get around the blockage, startup in Safe Mode and then try to update your iMac.

see > If an error occurred while updating or installing macOS - Apple Support

Reply

Level 10

95,638 points

Nov 24, 2023 1:04 PM in response to Sally418

What is the exact year model of your iMac?

see > Identify your iMac model - Apple Support

Reply

Level 10

477,265 points

Nov 24, 2023 1:48 PM in response to Sally418

Ventura is what will work on the 2017 model.

Reply

Sally418 Author

Level 1

4 points

Nov 24, 2023 1:35 PM in response to den.thed

It’s an iMac retina 4k, and I see that the updates haven’t been applied in 2 years so I have 11.2.3. It looks like I should upgrade to Ventura? 2017

Reply

Sally418 Author

Level 1

4 points

Nov 24, 2023 1:34 PM in response to FoxFifth

Ok thank you!

Reply

Sally418 Author

Level 1

4 points

Nov 24, 2023 1:40 PM in response to FoxFifth

Thank you I will try the link for the 2017 iMac.

Reply

Sally418 Author

Level 1

4 points

Nov 24, 2023 2:01 PM in response to den.thed

ok I will try that, do I go into safe mode, apply the upgrade and then restart?

Reply

Level 10

95,638 points

Nov 24, 2023 2:11 PM in response to Sally418

yes, yes, the update will cause the iMac to automatically restart.

Reply

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

How do I update my OS? Software update isn't working

Welcome to Apple Support Community

A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.

Learn more Sign up