Apple regularly releases major macOS updates (like Sonoma or Sequoia) that introduce new features, as well as smaller supplemental updates that patch critical security vulnerabilities. By default, your Mac is often configured to automatically download and install these system updates overnight while your computer is plugged in. While this ensures you are always running the most secure version of the operating system, automatic installations can sometimes introduce unexpected software bugs, disrupt crucial background renders, or break compatibility with specialized professional software (like audio plugins or video editing suites). You can turn this automation off to regain control over your update schedule.
How to Stop Automatic macOS Updates
You can manage your software update preferences directly from the System Settings.
- Click the Apple Logo in the top-left corner of your Mac’s screen.
- Select System Settings… from the drop-down menu.
- In the left-hand sidebar, click on General.
- On the right side of the window, click on Software Update.
- Look for the line that says Automatic Updates. On the far right of this line, click the small ‘i’ (info) button.
- A new menu will pop up with several toggle switches.
- Locate the toggle labelled Install macOS updates and click it to turn it Off.
- Click the blue Done button at the bottom of the pop-up window.
- You may be prompted to enter your Mac’s administrator password or use Touch ID to confirm the change.
Your Mac will no longer install core operating system upgrades without your permission. It is highly recommended that you still occasionally open this menu and click “Check for Updates” to manually review and install critical security patches when it is convenient for your workflow.