Summary
Apple frequently releases software updates that you can download. The Software Update feature in Mac OS X makes it very easy to determine and get exactly what you need.
Getting updates immediately (Mac OS X v10.3 or later)
- From the Apple () menu, choose Software Update.

- Software Update checks for available updates. In the Software Update window, select the items you want to install, then click Install. Usually, you should install all available updates. (Mac OS X v10.3 only: Click the Check Now button.)
- Enter an administrator account name and password.
- After installation is complete, restart the computer if required.
You can repeat these steps to see if more updates are now available. Because some software updates are prerequisites for others, you may need to repeat these steps several times to complete the software update sequence.
Note: Mac OS X v10.5 and later can automatically run Software Update checks in the background and let you know when an update is available for your computer.
Getting updates immediately (Mac OS X v10.2.8 or earlier)
- From the Apple () menu, choose System Preferences.
- From the View menu, choose Software Update.
- Click Update Now.
- In the Software Update window, select the items you want to install, then click Install.
- Enter an administrator account name and password.
- After the update is complete, restart the computer if a restart is required.
You can repeat these steps to see if more updates are now available. Because some software updates are prerequisites for others, you may need to repeat these steps several times to complete the software update sequence.