Why is my macOS update taking so long?

Answered by Randy McIntyre

There can be several reasons why your macOS update is taking a long time. One of the primary factors that can contribute to this issue is a poor internet connection. If your internet connection is unstable or slow, it can significantly impact the download or installation process, causing it to get stuck or take a longer time than usual.

Having a stable and high-speed internet connection is crucial when it comes to downloading and installing software updates, including macOS updates. If your internet connection is not up to par, it can result in slow download speeds, interruptions, or even a complete failure to download the update.

To alleviate this issue, you should first ensure that your internet connection is stable. Check if other devices on the same network are experiencing similar issues or if there are any known problems with your internet service provider. If necessary, you might consider switching to a different Wi-Fi network or using a wired connection for a more reliable and faster internet connection.

It’s worth noting that the size of the macOS update can also impact the time it takes to download and install. Major updates like macOS Big Sur or Catalina tend to be larger in size, and therefore, they may take longer to download and install compared to smaller updates. Additionally, if you have a slower internet connection, the larger update files will naturally take more time to download.

Another factor that can contribute to a lengthy update process is the overall performance of your Mac. If your Mac is older or has limited resources, such as low RAM or a slower processor, it may struggle to handle the update smoothly. This can result in slower installation times and overall sluggishness during the update process.

In some cases, the update process may appear to be stuck or taking a long time due to other factors unrelated to your internet connection. For example, if there are compatibility issues with your existing software or if there are conflicting applications running in the background, it can cause delays or failures in the update process.

To troubleshoot these issues, you can try closing any unnecessary applications, disabling any antivirus software temporarily, and ensuring that your Mac meets the minimum system requirements for the update. Additionally, performing a clean restart before initiating the update can help optimize your Mac’s performance and potentially speed up the update process.

A poor internet connection is one of the primary reasons why your macOS update may be taking a long time. Ensuring a stable and high-speed internet connection, as well as addressing any potential compatibility or performance issues with your Mac, can help expedite the update process.