user wants a long article on updating from macOS High Sierra 10.13.6 to macOS 10.15 (Catalina). I need to follow the search plan and provide a comprehensive guide. I'll start with the first round of searches as outlined. the first round of searches, I have gathered some initial information. For the second round, I need to address the specific queries about data backup, creating a USB installer, and troubleshooting issues. I'll search for these topics now. second round of searches has provided specific guides and troubleshooting steps. Now I need to synthesize this information into a comprehensive article. The article should cover: preparation (compatibility check, backup, 32-bit apps), obtaining the installer (from App Store or direct download), creating a USB installer, performing the upgrade, and troubleshooting. I'll cite the relevant sources. open pages provide a good amount of detail. Now, for the third round, I need to cover advanced scenarios like unsupported Macs and alternative installation methods. I'll search for these now. search results provide information on patchers and external drives. The final round of searches will focus on post-upgrade checks and troubleshooting installation issues. will now synthesize the information gathered into a long-form article. The article will cover why upgrade, preparation (compatibility, backup, 32-bit apps), downloading and installing, troubleshooting, post-upgrade steps, and advanced scenarios. I will cite the sources appropriately.grading an operating system is a significant step, and moving from macOS High Sierra (10.13.6) to macOS Catalina (10.15) is no exception. While a few years old, Catalina still offers a more secure and feature-rich environment than an unsupported High Sierra system. This guide provides a complete, end-to-end walkthrough to ensure your upgrade is safe and successful.
Wait for the list to load, then click the column to sort the apps.
to identify which of your current apps will stop working after the update. Update High Sierra App Store > Updates and install any pending security updates for 10.13.6 first. Apple Support Community how to update macos high sierra 10136 to 1015
Do not touch power, do not force shut down. If stuck on a progress bar for over 2 hours, then troubleshoot (see Step 6).
Check the box for and click Back Up Now in the menu bar icon to complete a fresh backup. 3. Clear Storage Space user wants a long article on updating from
If the App Store route throws errors or fails to download, you can upgrade using macOS Recovery Mode over the internet. Shut down your Mac completely.
If an app is 32-bit, you will need to find a newer version from the developer or an alternative app. the first round of searches, I have gathered
Use the built-in Time Machine utility to back up your entire system to an external drive. This is critical as the upgrade may reformat your drive to the APFS file system.
Transitioning from 10.13 to 10.15 changes system files, user permissions, and the underlying disk structure. A failed update can result in data loss. Therefore, you must perform a full to an external drive. For additional safety, consider cloning your startup disk using software like Carbon Copy Cloner. Crucially, do not skip this step; Catalina converts the system volume to a cryptographically signed, read-only “Signed System Volume,” and while this usually works seamlessly, reverting is difficult without a backup.
This guide will walk you through the entire process, from checking compatibility to performing a clean installation, ensuring a smooth transition.
Click "Continue" and agree to the software license agreement.