10.13.6 To 10.15: How To Update Macos High Sierra

Updating from High Sierra 10.13.6 to macOS Catalina 10.15 is a smart move for security and modern software compatibility—provided you don’t rely on 32-bit apps.

Before updating, create a bootable backup. If possible, partition your drive (40GB) and install Catalina fresh while keeping High Sierra for fallback.

One more tip: If your Mac has a mechanical hard drive (not SSD), Catalina will feel much slower than High Sierra. In that case, consider upgrading to an SSD or staying on Mojave.


Still unsure? Double-check your specific model at everymac.com or Apple’s official support page. And remember – you can always download the Catalina installer from the App Store, even if Apple technically says your Mac is “vintage.”

Good luck, and enjoy your upgraded Mac experience!

To update your Mac from macOS High Sierra 10.13.6 macOS Catalina 10.15

, you must first verify your hardware's compatibility and then manually download the installer via the App Store, as it won't appear in the standard "Software Update" window. Step 1: Check Compatibility how to update macos high sierra 10.13.6 to 10.15

Not all Macs that run High Sierra can support Catalina. Ensure your model is on this list: : Early 2015 or newer MacBook Air : Mid 2012 or newer MacBook Pro : Mid 2012 or newer : Late 2012 or newer : Late 2012 or newer : 2017 or newer : Late 2013 or newer Apple Support Important Warning : macOS Catalina is the first version to drop support for 32-bit apps

. Check your critical apps for 64-bit compatibility before proceeding. Apple Support Community Step 2: Prepare Your Mac

how can I update mac os from High Sierra 10.13.6 version to 10.15?

To update macOS High Sierra 10.13.6 to macOS Catalina 10.15, the process depends primarily on whether your hardware is officially supported. Unlike regular point updates, this is a major system upgrade that requires a full installer from the Mac App Store. 1. Verify Hardware Compatibility

First, confirm your Mac is on the official compatibility list: MacBook: Early 2015 or newer MacBook Air: Mid 2012 or newer MacBook Pro: Mid 2012 or newer Mac mini: Late 2012 or newer iMac: Late 2012 or newer iMac Pro: 2017 Mac Pro: Late 2013 or newer 2. Pre-Upgrade Checklist

Back Up Your Data: Use Time Machine to create a full system backup before proceeding. Updating from High Sierra 10

Check Storage Space: You need at least 18.5 GB of available storage to upgrade from High Sierra.

App Compatibility: Catalina does not support 32-bit apps. Use a tool like Go64 to identify older software that will stop working after the update.

Stable Internet: Ensure you have a strong connection, as the installer is approximately 8GB. 3. Step-by-Step Installation

Since you are on High Sierra, the update will not appear in the standard "Software Update" tab in System Preferences. You must download it manually.

how can I update mac os from High Sierra 10.13.6 version to 10.15?

Important Note: As of 2026, both macOS High Sierra (10.13) and macOS Catalina (10.15) are considered obsolete and no longer receive security updates from Apple. Furthermore, Catalina is a 64-bit only operating system. Before proceeding, understand that you will permanently lose the ability to run any 32-bit applications. Still unsure


Why upgrade:

Why stay or consider Mojave 10.14 instead:


Option A: Standard upgrade (keeps your files)

Option B: Clean install (erases everything – only if you want a fresh start)

Most users should choose Option A.


If you notice odd behavior (Wi-Fi dropping, sound glitching):