For Mac OS X, how do I obtain and install system software updates?

To obtain major releases of Mac OS X (e.g.,, Mac OS X 10.7 Lion, Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard), you must purchase them from Apple. However, Apple releases free updates between major commercial releases (e.g., from 10.7.0 to 10.7.1). You can use the Software Update feature to download and install updates to your operating system software and to other programs distributed by Apple. You need to be connected to the Internet to use this feature, and it is best to quit any running applications before attempting to update. When you're ready, from the Apple menu, select Software Update... , and then follow the instructions on the screen. Often, you will have to restart your computer, and you may have to run Software Update multiple times before it can completely update your system.

You can also download software updates from Apple and install them manually. Most updates are distributed as disk images. Once you have an update downloaded, double-click it, and then follow the instructions on the screen.

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