Unable to update any apple-branded apps or services

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Unable to update any apple-branded apps or services

Hello -

I have a mid-2010 Macbook Pro 17", running OS 10.9. Ever since installing Mavericks, I have been unable to automatically update any Apple-branded programs or services. I am unable to automatically update iTunes, I am unable to successfully run software update, and I can't even connect to the server to download the enhanced dictation package.

I am connected to the internet, and I can manually download things like iTunes, but I can't use the Software Update app to update anything. Typically, I get the "Didn't get a response from the Software Update server (192.168.12.25)" error. When I try to enable enhanced dictation, I get the "an unexpected error occurred when I try to enable the Enhanced dictation engine" message. I've found little help on this forum or through various google searches, but the problem is super irritating, and I can apparently do nothing to update my mac!

Please send help 🙂

MacBook Pro, OS X Mavericks (10.9)

Posted on Dec 9, 2013 9:29 PM

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Answer 1

jason269

Community Specialist

Dec 12, 2013 9:29 AM in response to 7secondsed

Hi, 7secondsed.

Thank you for visiting Apple Support Communities.

Try the steps in the attached articles and screenshots below and test to see if it resolves the issue.

The hosts file may also be blocking the iTunes Store.

Open the Terminal utility located in Applications > Utilities.

When Terminal opens, open the hosts file by typing entering the following command and pressing Enter:
sudo nano /private/etc/hosts

Type your user password when prompted.
Note: This requires a non-blank admin password.

Edit the hosts file:
The hosts file contains some comments (lines starting with the # symbol), as well as some default hostname mappings (e.g. 127.0.0.1 – localhost).
You can navigate the file using the arrow keys.

If an entry is found containing apple.com, add # and a space to the beginning of that line.
Note: If this is a work system, the hosts file may be used to redirect to local resources, such as software updates. Consult your support resources.

Save the hosts file.

When done editing the hosts file, press Control-o to save the file.

Press Enter on the filename prompt, and Control-x to exit the editor.

If the issue persists, other software may be running on your Mac that is affecting the connection.

iTunes: Advanced iTunes Store troubleshooting

http://support.apple.com/kb/ts3297

Mac App Store: Cannot update App Store purchases or updates do not seem available

http://support.apple.com/kb/TS4236

Cheers,

Jason H.

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