Enable Automatic Software Updates Using Macintosh OS X 10.10


Macintosh OS X users can enable automatic software updates on most Macintosh desktop and laptop computers. Automatic updates allow you to easily download and install security patches and bug fixes at regular intervals. This will enable all of the automatic app and OS X update features on the Mac, providing for very simple management of applications.

Follow the steps below to learn how to enable automatic updates using OS X 10.10:

  1. Open the System Preferences application. System Preferences is located in the Applications folder and can be opened by using one of the following methods:
    1. Click the System Preferences icon in the Dock.
    2. Double-click the System Preferences icon in the Applications folder.
    3. Click the Apple icon in the upper right corner of the screen to open the Apple menu. Select System Preferences.
      System preferences icon   
  2. The System Preferences window will open. Click the App Store icon.
  3. The App Store preferences tab will open. Select the following options:
    • Automatically check for updates.
    • Download newly available updates in the background.
    • Install app updates.
    • Install system data files and security updates.
      Software update icon
  4. Optional, but recommended: Click Show Updates to launch the Updates tab in the App Store to view any required updates. If system software and all applications on the computer are up-to-date, a Check Now button will be displayed in place of the Show Updates button.