How to Upgrade to macOS Ventura

Now that it's officially available for everyone

By
Jeremy Laukkonen
Jeremy Laukkonen
Jeremy Laukkonen
Writer
  • Shoreline Community College
Jeremy Laukkonen is automotive and tech writer for numerous major trade publications. When not researching and testing computers, game consoles or smartphones, he stays up-to-date on the myriad complex systems that power battery electric vehicles .
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Updated on November 17, 2022

What to Know

  • Open Apple menu and select About This Mac to check compatibility (typically 2017 and newer).
  • Open System Preferences > Software Update > look for the macOS Ventura prompt > select Update Now.

This article explains how to upgrade to macOS Ventura, including how to check compatibility and how to download and install the new operating system. Find out below if your Mac can handle the upgrade, and how to download and install Ventura if your Mac is up to the task.

macOS Ventura Compatibility

Recent versions of macOS like Catalina and Monterey maintained compatibility with Macs built within the last decade or so prior to their respective release dates, but Ventura is compatible with a narrower range of hardware. If your Mac was built within the last few years, it will work with Ventura. If you have an older Mac, then make sure to check the compatibility list, because there’s a good chance you’ll have to stick with Monterey for the time being.

Click the Apple icon > About This Mac to see what model you have.

Here are the Macs that can upgrade to Ventura:

  • MacBook Air: 2018 and newer
  • MacBook Pro: 2017 and newer
  • Mac Mini: 2018 and newer
  • iMac: 2017 and newer
  • Mac Pro: 2019 and newer
  • MacBook: 2017 and newer
  • iMac Pro: 2017
  • Mac Studio: 2022

How to Update to macOS Ventura

Upgrading to macOS Ventura (so long as your Mac is compatible) is a very simple process. Click the Apple icon in the top-left corner and open System Preferences > Software Update. Then look for the macOS Ventura update option and select Update Now to start the download. Make sure you have enough space available (Apple recommends at least 12.5 GB), and remember that OS updates can take a lot of time to complete.

  1. Download macOS Ventura from the App Store and open the installer.

    You can also update macOS to Ventura by selecting the Apple icon > select About This Mac > Software Update > Upgrade Now.

  2. Click Continue.

    Continue highlighted in a macOS installation window.

  3. Click Continue.

    Continue highlighted in the macOS software agreement.

  4. Click Agree.

    Agree highlighted in the macOS software license agreement.

  5. Click Install.

    Install highlighted in an installation window on macOS.

    If you’re installing on a Macbook, make sure you’re plugged into power throughout the installation process to avoid damaging your computer by running out of power during the installation.

  6. Enter your password or authenticate with Touch ID.

    Authentication during a macOS upgrade.

  7. Click Download.

    Download highlighted during a macOS upgrade.

  8. Click Continue.

    Continue highlighted in the macOS Ventura installer.

  9. Click Agree.

    Agree highlighted in the macOS Ventura software license agreement.

  10. Click Agree.

    Agree highlighted in the macOS Ventura software agreement.

  11. Click Continue.

    Continue highlighted in the macOS Ventura installer.

  12. Enter your password, and click Unlock.

    Unlock highlighted in the macOS Ventura installer.

  13. Wait for macOS to install.

    macOS Ventura installing

  14. When it finishes, your Mac will reboot into macOS Ventura.

    The macOS Ventura desktop.
FAQ
  • Which Macs are compatible with macOS Ventura?

    Not every Mac is compatible with this version of macOS. It works with 2017 and newer iMacs, iMac Pros, MacBooks, and MacBook Pros; MacBook Airs and Mac Minis from 2018 and later; 2019 and up Mac Pros; and the Mac Studio.

  • Why won't my Mac upgrade?

    The main reason you can't upgrade macOS is that your machine isn't compatible with the new version. If it is on the list, try restarting your machine and trying the install again.

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