Welcome to this tutorial on how to update your Mac operating system from Yosemite to Sierra. Apple releases new OS updates every year, and upgrading to the latest version can bring many new features and improvements to your Mac. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to ensure a smooth update process from Yosemite to Sierra. Let’s get started!
Understanding the Update
Before we dive into the steps to update your Mac OS Yosemite to Sierra, it’s essential to understand what Sierra is and what it brings to the table. Sierra is the 13th version of the macOS operating system, and it was released in 2016. It is a free update that comes with a host of new features, including Siri integration, better storage optimization, and improved security features. It’s worth noting that Sierra requires a Mac that is compatible with Metal, Apple’s graphics API. If your Mac is not compatible with Metal, you won’t be able to update to Sierra.
Compatibility
To check if your Mac is compatible with Sierra, you need to ensure that it has the following specifications:
- MacBook (Late 2009 or newer)
- MacBook Pro (Mid 2010 or newer)
- MacBook Air (Late 2010 or newer)
- Mac mini (Mid 2010 or newer)
- iMac (Late 2009 or newer)
- Mac Pro (Mid 2010 or newer)
If your Mac meets these specifications, you can proceed with the update. If not, you might need to consider upgrading your Mac to a newer model.
Backup Your Data
Before you start the update, it’s essential to back up your data to avoid losing any files or data during the process. You can back up your data using Time Machine, Apple’s built-in backup system. Time Machine creates incremental backups of your files, and you can restore them if anything goes wrong during the update process. To back up your data using Time Machine, follow these steps:
- Connect an external hard drive to your Mac.
- Open Time Machine preferences by clicking on the Apple menu > System Preferences > Time Machine.
- Click on Select Backup Disk and choose the external hard drive you just connected.
- Click on the On/Off toggle to turn Time Machine on.
- Time Machine will now start backing up your data.
Updating Mac OS Yosemite to Sierra
Now that you have backed up your data and checked your Mac’s compatibility with Sierra, it’s time to update your Mac OS Yosemite to Sierra. Follow these steps:
- Open the Mac App Store.
- Search for macOS Sierra in the search bar.
- Click on the Download button to start the download.
- Once the download is complete, the installer will launch automatically.
- Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation process.
It’s worth noting that the installation process can take some time, depending on your Mac’s specifications and the amount of data you have on your Mac. It’s essential to be patient and not interrupt the installation process as it can cause damage to your Mac’s software.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter any issues during the update process, it’s essential to troubleshoot the problem before proceeding. Here are some common issues and their solutions:
1. “Installation Failed” Error Message
If you see an “Installation Failed” error message during the update process, it means that the installer encountered a problem and could not complete the installation. To fix this issue, try the following:
- Restart your Mac and try the update again.
- Free up some space on your Mac by deleting unnecessary files.
- Check your internet connection and try the update again.
2. “Mac OS Could Not Be Installed on Your Computer” Error Message
If you see a “Mac OS Could Not Be Installed on Your Computer” error message during the update process, it means that your Mac’s firmware is not up to date. To fix this issue, try the following:
- Reset your Mac’s System Management Controller (SMC) and try the update again.
- Update your Mac’s firmware by downloading and installing the latest firmware update from Apple’s website.
FAQs – How to Update Mac OS Yosemite to Sierra
Can my Mac run Sierra?
Before attempting to update your Mac to Sierra, it’s essential to check if your Mac is capable of running it. Mac OS Sierra is compatible with the following Mac models:
– iMac: Late 2009 or newer
– MacBook: Late 2009 or newer
– MacBook Air: Late 2010 or newer
– MacBook Pro: Mid 2010 or newer
– Mac mini: Mid 2010 or newer
– Mac Pro: Mid 2010 or newer
If your Mac is not in the list above, it’s not compatible with Sierra, and you cannot upgrade to the new OS.
How can I back up my files before updating to Sierra?
It’s always best to create a backup of your files before performing any operating system update to prevent data loss. There are two ways you can back up your files: using Time Machine or creating a manual backup.
To use Time Machine, connect an external hard drive to your Mac and select “Time Machine” from the System Preferences menu. Click on “Select Backup Disk” and choose the external hard drive you connected. Time Machine will automatically back up your files.
To create a manual backup, connect an external hard drive to your Mac, and copy all essential files and folders to it.
How do I download and install Sierra?
To download Sierra, open the App Store on your Mac, and search for macOS Sierra. Click on “Get” and wait for the download to finish. Once downloaded, an installer will open automatically. Click on “Continue” and follow the on-screen instructions to install the new OS.
Please note that the installation process may take several minutes to complete. Ensure that your Mac is connected to a power source and has enough storage space before starting the installation.
What do I do if the installation fails?
If the installation of Sierra fails, don’t panic. Try restarting your Mac and attempt to install Sierra again. If it still fails, the issue most likely lies with insufficient storage space or an incompatible app. Ensure that you have enough storage space on your Mac and try uninstalling any incompatible apps before trying again.
Can I revert to Yosemite if I don’t like Sierra?
Yes, you can revert to Yosemite if you are not comfortable with Sierra. However, downgrading to a previous operating system is not a straightforward process and requires creating a backup of all your files and a fresh installation of Mac OS Yosemite. It’s best to consider all factors before making the decision to update to Sierra or remain on Yosemite.