Why update macOS High Sierra responsibly
macOS High Sierra (10.13) is an older but still supported system for many Macs, and updating it requires care to avoid instability or data loss. This evergreen explainer shows how to evaluate compatibility, prepare backups, verify app readiness, and perform a safe update, plus what to do afterward to keep performance and security strong. Treat this as a long-term reference whether you are maintaining a legacy machine or preparing a cautious move forward.
Update macOS High Sierra quick summary
Before you start, confirm your Mac model is eligible, back up important data, and verify critical apps work on High Sierra. The safest path is to update while connected to power, wired networking, and with Time Machine backups in place; avoid forcing major version jumps without intermediate checks. After updating, run basic maintenance, review security settings, and monitor stability for two weeks.
Check compatibility and supported models
High Sierra officially supports a wide range of Macs introduced from 2009 onward, including iMac, MacBook, MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, Mac mini, Mac Pro, and Xserve models. If your Mac is already running a newer macOS, downgrading to High Sierra is generally not recommended and may not be supported. Verify exact model support using Apple’s official lists or reliable compatibility references before installing.
Key Mac models released around High Sierra launch
| Model | Typical macOS support | Notes for High Sierra updates |
|---|---|---|
| iMac (2012–2014) | OS X Mountain Lion through macOS Catalina | Eligible for High Sierra; later updates possible |
| MacBook (2015–2017) | macOS Sierra through macOS Catalina | Check hardware revision; support varies |
| MacBook Pro 2016–2019 | macOS High Sierra through latest macOS | Fully supported; TPM and Secure Boot considerations |
| Mac mini (2012–2014) | OS X Mountain Lion through macOS Catalina | Eligible for High Sierra; limited to specific models later |
| Mac Pro 2013–2019 | OS X Mavericks through macOS Monterey | Multiple generations; verify firmware and expansion compatibility |
Back up and verify before you update
Always create a complete backup with Time Machine and, if desired, an offsite copy using iCloud, Backblaze, or another provider. Backups protect you if an update fails or an app becomes unstable. Verify that your backup is complete and restorable before beginning, and ensure you have enough free storage—Apple recommends several gigabytes of free space for High Sierra updates, more if major features or large apps will change.
Confirm app and peripheral readiness
Some 32-bit apps and older helper tools may not run on High Sierra or may require updates from developers. Before updating, list critical applications, check vendor notes for macOS High Sierra support, and test noncritical builds if possible. Peripherals such as specialized audio interfaces, scanners, and external GPUs can also require updated drivers; confirm compatibility to avoid surprises after the update.
- Back up with Time Machine and verify integrity
- Ensure sufficient free storage and power
- Confirm app vendors support High Sierra
- Check third‑party drivers for peripherals
- Prefer updates over clean installs unless necessary
How to perform the update safely
Connect to AC power, use a reliable wired network, and pause automatic updates during the install to prevent interruptions. Run Software Update in System Preferences, which will present compatible High Sierra builds and necessary supplemental updates. If incremental updates are required, approve them in order rather than skipping multiple versions. For most users, updating in place is sufficient; reserve clean installs for troubleshooting when supported and necessary.
Step-by-step checklist before clicking Update Now
- Back up with Time Machine and verify you can restore.
- Connect to power and, if possible, to a stable wired network.
- Close critical apps and save open work.
- Open App Store or Software Update and review available updates.
- Install supplemental updates and security patches as they appear.
Postupdate checks to maintain stability
After the update, run Software Update again to catch any deferred patches, verify login items, and check security and privacy settings. Monitor system logs and user experiences for a couple of weeks, especially for apps and peripherals that appeared marginal before. If problems surface, you can often resolve them by reinstalling affected apps, updating drivers, or reverting to a preupdate backup.
Quick postupdate checklist
- Run Software Update to completion
- Confirm user accounts and FileVault settings
- Check peripheral devices and drivers
- Test core applications and workflows
- Monitor performance and logs for anomalies
When to consider alternatives to updating
If your Mac is on the edge of supported configurations, relies on unsupported 32-bit software, or shows repeated update failures, you may prefer to stay on a stable older patch of High Sierra or prepare for hardware replacement. In these cases, prioritize reliable backups, limit system changes, and plan future upgrades on a deliberate schedule that matches your risk tolerance and operational needs.