This is normal. Let the computer run for at least 1-2 hours before assuming it is frozen.
Are you still running macOS High Sierra 10.13.6 on your Mac? If so, you're missing out on the latest features, security patches, and performance enhancements that newer macOS versions have to offer. In this article, we'll walk you through the process of updating your Mac to macOS 10.15, also known as Catalina.
Moving from 10.13.6 to 10.15 is a major system overhaul. The installer completely rewrites your system partition and upgrades the file system structure (though you’re already on APFS if you updated High Sierra after a certain point). Here’s how to prepare.
Because macOS Catalina is an older release, you will generally not find it simply by searching the standard Mac App Store search bar. Apple hides older operating systems to encourage users to download the newest software. Instead, you must use a direct link. 1. Download the Installer how to update macos high sierra 10.13.6 to 10.15
This link will automatically redirect you to the page for Catalina. Click the Get or Download button. 2. Run the Installation
Once you've completed the preparations, you can begin the upgrade. The most straightforward method is via the Mac App Store.
When the installation finishes, you will be greeted by the macOS Catalina setup assistant. This is normal
By following these guidelines and taking the necessary precautions, you'll be able to upgrade your Mac to macOS 10.15 with confidence.
Before upgrading to macOS 10.15, it's essential to prepare your Mac for the update. Here are some steps to take:
Once on Catalina, enjoy the modern macOS interface, tighter integration with iOS devices, and the comfort of knowing you’re no longer running an OS that’s half a decade old. Just remember: always keep a Time Machine backup, and if performance is sluggish after a week, consider clean-installing Catalina (erase and install from scratch) – but that’s a guide for another day. If so, you're missing out on the latest
Use Time Machine to backup your entire Mac to an external hard drive. If something goes wrong, you can restore your files.
. Old versions of Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office 2011, and many legacy drivers will completely stop working. Apple Support Community Pre-Update Checklist macOS Catalina - Technical Specifications - Apple Support
Unlike High Sierra, . This means older versions of Microsoft Office (like Office 2011), Adobe Creative Suite, and many legacy drivers will stop working.
macOS Catalina (10.15) represents a significant shift in the macOS ecosystem, introducing features such as Sidecar and Voice Control, while simultaneously discontinuing support for 32-bit applications. Users currently on macOS High Sierra (10.13.6) are in a prime position to upgrade, as the system requirements overlap significantly. However, because the Software Update mechanism in High Sierra does not automatically prompt for an upgrade to an OS older than the current release (Sonoma/Ventura), users must utilize specific methods to retrieve and install Catalina.
Before making any significant system change, a full backup is your safety net. Apple's built-in backup tool, , is the ideal solution.