Table of Contents

How to Update to macOS High Sierra: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you’re looking to climb the Sierra and experience the (still surprisingly relevant) world of macOS High Sierra? Excellent choice. While newer versions abound, High Sierra offers a solid, reliable experience, especially for those with older hardware or specific software compatibility needs. The update process is generally straightforward, but let’s navigate it with the precision of a seasoned mountaineer plotting their ascent.

Here’s the core answer to your question: Updating to macOS High Sierra involves backing up your data, checking compatibility, downloading the installer from the App Store, running the installer, and following the on-screen prompts. Let’s break this down into manageable, easily digestible steps, ensuring you reach the summit without any unexpected tumbles.

The High Sierra Update: A Step-by-Step Guide

Before you even think about clicking that “Update” button, meticulous preparation is key. This isn’t just about convenience; it’s about safeguarding your precious data.

1. Back Up Your Data: The Cardinal Rule

This is non-negotiable. Consider it the oxygen mask of operating system updates. Whether you choose Time Machine, a third-party backup solution, or even manually copying your crucial files to an external drive, back up your data. Data loss during an update is a nightmare scenario, and a proper backup is your insurance policy. Time Machine is the easiest option, especially if you’re already using it. Connect your external drive, open System Preferences, go to Time Machine, and follow the instructions. Remember, a complete backup can take several hours, so plan accordingly.

2. Check Compatibility: Ensuring a Smooth Ascent

macOS High Sierra is compatible with a specific range of Macs. Here’s a quick compatibility checklist:

MacBook (Late 2009 or newer)
MacBook Air (Late 2010 or newer)
MacBook Pro (Mid 2010 or newer)
Mac mini (Mid 2010 or newer)
iMac (Late 2009 or newer)
Mac Pro (Mid 2010 or newer)

If your Mac isn’t on this list, unfortunately, High Sierra isn’t an option for you. If it is on the list, proceed with caution. Even with compatible hardware, some older applications might not function correctly. Check the compatibility of your critical software before updating. Consult the developers’ websites for information.

3. Download the macOS High Sierra Installer: Obtaining the Necessary Gear

You can usually find the macOS High Sierra installer in the Mac App Store. Search for “macOS High Sierra” and download the application. If you previously downloaded it, it might be in your Purchased section. If you are unable to find it in the App Store, you can try searching for the download link online. Make sure you are only downloading from the official Apple website. The installer is a large file (typically around 5-6 GB), so ensure you have a stable internet connection and sufficient free disk space.

Once downloaded, the installer application will likely launch automatically. Do not proceed yet. Quit the installer. We need to prepare a bootable installer for a cleaner installation (optional, but highly recommended).

4. Create a Bootable Installer (Optional, but Recommended): Preparing for a Clean Installation

A bootable installer offers several advantages. It allows for a clean installation, which can resolve underlying system issues and provide a more stable experience. It also allows you to install High Sierra on multiple Macs without re-downloading the installer each time.

To create a bootable installer, you’ll need a USB drive with at least 16GB of free space. This drive will be erased during the process, so ensure you’ve backed up any important data on it.

Here’s the process, using Terminal:

Open Terminal (Applications > Utilities > Terminal).
Type the following command, replacing “MyVolume” with the name of your USB drive:
sudo /Applications/Install macOS High Sierra.app/Contents/Resources/createinstallmedia --volume /Volumes/MyVolume
Press Enter and enter your administrator password when prompted.
Type Y to confirm that you want to erase the drive.
Press Enter. The process will take some time.

5. Installing macOS High Sierra: Beginning the Ascent

If you chose to proceed with the standard installation (without a bootable installer), simply double-click the downloaded “Install macOS High Sierra” application and follow the on-screen instructions. The installer will guide you through the process, including selecting the disk to install macOS on and agreeing to the license agreement.

If you created a bootable installer, follow these steps:

Connect the USB drive to your Mac.
Restart your Mac.
Immediately press and hold the Option (Alt) key until you see the startup manager.
Select your USB drive and press Enter.
The installer will launch. Follow the on-screen instructions.

6. The Installation Process: Be Patient

The installation process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour or more, depending on your Mac’s speed and storage type. During this time, your Mac will restart several times. Do not interrupt the process. A premature shutdown could lead to data corruption or an incomplete installation.

7. Post-Installation: Checking Your Gear

Once the installation is complete, you’ll be greeted with the familiar macOS setup assistant. Follow the prompts to configure your account, connect to Wi-Fi, and restore your data from your backup.

After logging in, take some time to verify that everything is working correctly. Check that your applications launch, your files are accessible, and your peripherals (printers, scanners, etc.) are functioning.

macOS High Sierra: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Let’s address some common questions and concerns that often arise during the High Sierra update process.

1. Can I upgrade directly from macOS Sierra to High Sierra?

Yes, you can directly upgrade from macOS Sierra to High Sierra. The update process is designed to be seamless. However, it’s always recommended to back up your data before proceeding with any major operating system upgrade.

2. How much free space do I need to install High Sierra?

Apple recommends having at least 20GB of free storage space available on your startup disk to install High Sierra. A clean installation, using a bootable installer, will require formatting the entire drive, but at least 20 GB is required to install the OS initially.

3. Will my old applications work on High Sierra?

Possibly. Older 32-bit applications will not work on macOS High Sierra. High Sierra supports 64-bit applications. Check the compatibility of your critical software before updating.

4. What is APFS, and why does High Sierra use it?

APFS (Apple File System) is a modern file system optimized for flash storage. It offers several advantages over the older HFS+ file system, including faster performance, better security, and improved storage management. High Sierra automatically converts your startup disk to APFS during the installation process (if it’s an SSD).

5. Can I revert to my previous macOS version after upgrading to High Sierra?

Yes, but it requires a bit of effort. You can revert to a previous macOS version by restoring from a Time Machine backup made before the upgrade. Alternatively, if you created a bootable installer of your previous macOS version, you can boot from that installer and erase your hard drive before reinstalling.

6. What if the High Sierra installer gets stuck during the installation process?

If the installer gets stuck, try restarting your Mac. If that doesn’t work, try booting into Safe Mode (hold down the Shift key while restarting) and running the installer from there. If all else fails, try creating a bootable installer and performing a clean installation.

7. How do I boot into Recovery Mode on macOS High Sierra?

To boot into Recovery Mode, restart your Mac and immediately hold down the Command (⌘) and R keys until you see the Apple logo or a spinning globe.

8. What are the main features of macOS High Sierra?

Key features of macOS High Sierra include APFS (Apple File System), improved Photos app, enhanced Safari browser, and Metal 2 graphics technology. It also brought improvements to Mail, Notes, and Siri.

9. Is it safe to download the High Sierra installer from unofficial sources?

No, it is not safe to download the installer from unofficial sources. Only download the installer from the Mac App Store or the official Apple website. Downloading from unofficial sources could expose your Mac to malware or viruses.

10. How long will Apple continue to support macOS High Sierra?

Apple’s support timeline varies. Generally, Apple supports the three most recent versions of macOS. However, security updates are occasionally released for older versions, even after official support has ended.

11. Can I dual-boot High Sierra with another operating system?

Yes, you can dual-boot High Sierra with another operating system, such as Windows or Linux, using Boot Camp Assistant or a third-party boot manager. However, this requires careful planning and technical expertise.

12. What are the minimum system requirements for macOS High Sierra?

The minimum system requirements for macOS High Sierra include:

2GB of RAM
12.5GB of available storage space
One of the compatible Mac models listed above

Updating to macOS High Sierra can breathe new life into your older Mac. By following these steps and addressing common concerns, you’ll be well-equipped to conquer the High Sierra and enjoy a smooth and stable computing experience. Remember, preparation is paramount, and a little patience goes a long way. Now go forth and update!