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Safely Preparing Your Mac for a Major macOS Upgrade

Issue Description 

Major macOS upgrades can cause issues if preparation steps are skipped. 

Common Causes 

  • Incompatible apps 
  • Low disk space 
  • No backups 

Step-by-Step Solution 

Step 1: Check Compatibility 

  • Verify Mac model supports new macOS 

 

Step 2: Back Up System 

  • Create full Time Machine backup 

 

Step 3: Free Up Disk Space 

  • Ensure 30–40 GB free 

 

Step 4: Update Apps First 

  • Install app updates before upgrading macOS 

 

Step 5: Install macOS Upgrade 

  • System Settings → Software Update 
  • Install and allow process to complete 

Explore Further 

  • Delay upgrade if critical apps unsupported 

Prevention & Best Practices 

Never upgrade macOS without a verified backup.