If you are a Mac user, you may wonder what version of macOS you are running. Luckily, it is easy to find out what version of macOS your computer is running through a few simple steps. In this guide, we will show you how to identify the version of macOS on your device.

Overview

If you are a Mac user, you may sometimes need to check what version of Mac OS you are running. Knowing your Mac OS version can help you determine whether your system is compatible with specific applications, games, or software updates. In this article, we will show you how to find out what Mac OS you have.

Checking the Mac OS Version through the Apple Menu

The easiest way to check your Mac OS version is through the Apple logo on your computer’s menu bar. Here’s how:

  1. Click on the Apple logo located in the upper left corner of your screen.
  2. From the drop-down menu, select “About This Mac.”
  3. A window will appear, showing you the version of your Mac OS.

Checking the Mac OS Version through the System Information App

Another way to check your Mac OS version is through the System Information app. Here’s how:

  1. Click on “System Report.”
  2. The System Information app will open, showing you detailed information about your Mac, including your Mac OS version.

Checking the Mac OS Version through Terminal

If you prefer using command lines, you can also check your Mac OS version through Terminal. Here’s how:

  1. Open the Terminal app from your Applications > Utilities folder.
  2. Type “sw_vers” (without the quotes) and press Enter.
  3. The Terminal will show you the version of your Mac OS.

Checking the Mac OS Version through the Startup Disk

You can also check your Mac OS version through the Startup Disk window. Here’s how:

  1. Go to the Apple menu and select “System Preferences.”
  2. Click on “Startup Disk.”
  3. The window will show you the version of your Mac OS.

Checking the Mac OS Version through the Recovery Mode

Lastly, you can check your Mac OS version through the Recovery Mode. Here’s how:

  1. Restart your Mac and press and hold the Command + R keys until you see the Apple logo.
  2. The Mac will boot into Recovery Mode.
  3. Select “Utilities” from the menu bar and click on “Terminal.”
  4. Type “sw_vers” (without the quotes) and press Enter.
  5. The Terminal will show you the version of your Mac OS.

FAQs for how to find out what mac os i have

What is a Mac OS?

A Mac OS is the operating system used on Apple computers. It is the software that manages and controls the hardware of a Mac computer. Apple has released different versions of the Mac OS over the years, each with its unique features and capabilities.

How can I check what version of Mac OS I have?

To find out what version of Mac OS your computer is running, click on the Apple menu icon in the top left corner of your screen. From the dropdown menu, select “About This Mac.” A window will pop up displaying a summary of your Mac’s specifications, including the version of the operating system you are running.

What if the “About This Mac” option is not showing up?

If the “About This Mac” option is not showing up on your computer, click on the Apple menu icon in the top left corner of your screen and select “System Preferences.” From there, select “Software Update” and wait for your Mac to check if there are any updates available. Once the update check is complete, you will be able to see what version of Mac OS you have installed.

Are there any other ways to check the Mac OS version?

Yes, another way to check the Mac OS version is to open the “Terminal” application from the “Utilities” folder in the “Applications” folder. Once the Terminal window opens, enter the command “sw_vers” and hit Enter. This will display information about the version of Mac OS you have installed, including the version code name and build number.

Why is it important to know what Mac OS I have?

Knowing what version of Mac OS you are running is important for several reasons. First, it helps determine whether your computer is compatible with certain software applications and updates. Second, knowing the Mac OS version can help troubleshoot issues with your computer and ensure that you are receiving the correct support and guidance. Finally, updating to the latest version of Mac OS can improve the security and performance of your computer.

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