How to Upgrade to macOS Catalina
Last updated on May 6th, 2025 at 5:04 pm
Learn how to download and install macOS Catalina.
macOS Catalina is designed to deliver better user experience with lightweight software. You can upgrade to Apple macOS Catalina to experience TV, music, and podcasts in three all-new Mac apps. With iPad and Apple Pencil, you can enhance your creativity and extend your workspace. Here, you can enjoy your favorite iPad apps on your Mac.
It is a powerful software version offered by Apple to offer enhanced performance. With macOS Big Sur, Apple is set to offer you a better user experience and more features; it is worthwhile to try macOS Catalina today.
Which macOS version is installed on your Mac?
To check which macOS version is installed on your Mac, click the Apple menu and select About This Mac. Here, you will find macOS name and its version number. You can click the version number to see build number.
1. Check Compatibility
If you are running OS X Mavericks or later, you can upgrade to macOS Catalina.
General Requirements
- OS X 10.9 or later
- 4GB of memory
- 12.5GB of available storage with OS X El Capitan 10.11.5 or later
- 18.5GB of storage space when upgrading from OS X Yosemite or earlier
- Some features of Catalina may require a compatible Internet service provider
- Some features require an Apple ID; terms apply
Mac Hardware Requirements
If you using any of these Mac models, then you can upgrade to macOs Catalina:
- iMac (Late 2012 or newer)
- Mac Mini (Late 2012 or newer)
- MacBook Pro (Mid 2012 or newer)
- MacBook Air (Mid 2012 or newer)
- Mac Pro (Late 2013 or newer)
- MacBook (Early 2015 or newer)
- iMac Pro (2017)
If you are running from Lion or Mountain, you need to upgrade to El Capitan first before you upgrade to macOS Catalina. The installer will let you know if your device is not compatible with macOS Catalina.
2. Create a backup
Now that you are ready to upgrade to Catalina, it’s wise to make a backup before any upgrade. It will help you get back to the old version of Mac if something goes wrong with the upgrade. You can create a Time Machine backup and restore it when needed easily. In addition to that, you can also try best backup software for Mac, disk cloner software, or cloud-based services to take backup of important data.
3. Get connected to the network
As downloading and installing macOS is going to take time, you need to ensure stable Internet connection. If you are using a Mac notebook, you need to plug it into AC power.
4. Download macOS Catalina
If you’re using macOS Mojave, then you need to update software to get MacOS Catalina. To do this, click Apple menu > System Preferences, and then select Software Update. Check this article to know how to update software on Mac. Or you can get the latest macOS Catalina on the -App Store for other versions including High Sierra (10.13), Sierra (10.12) or El Capitan (10.11). If you’re using Lion (10.7) or Mountain Lion (10.8), you will need to upgrade to El Capitan (10.11) first before you could upgrade to macOS Catalina.
5. Begin installation
Once the download is completed, the installer will open automatically. Simply click Continue and follow the onscreen instructions. You can try to start installation process in the evening so that it can complete overnight to avoid unnecessary trouble.
Note: In case the installer asks for the permission to install a helper tool, you need to enter administrator details including login name and password of your Mac. Once done, click Add Helper.
6. Let the installation process complete
Next is to let the installation process complete. During the process your Mac might restart, show a blank screen several times, or show a progress bar as it installs both operating system and updates to Mac firmware. You shouldn’t put your Mac to sleep or close it lid.
7. Stay up to date
Once you have upgraded to macOS Catalina, you will get regular software updates to keep your Mac up to date. You can try Software Update to get these latest updates on your device. To do this, click Apple menu > System Preferences, then click Software Update.
Conclusion
So this was a detailed discussion of how to upgrade to macOS Catalina. Do try these steps to enjoy macOS Catalina on your Mac in few simple steps. With macOS Big Sur, you can expect more in coming days.
Author Bio:
Dinesh Lakhwani 
Dinesh Lakhwani, the entrepreneurial brain behind “TechCommuters,” achieved big things in the tech world. He started the company to make smart and user-friendly tech solutions. Thanks to his sharp thinking, focus on quality and the motto of never giving up, TechCommuters became a top player in the industry. His commitment to excellence has propelled the company to a leading position in the industry.
Popular Post
Recent Post
How To Change Default Apps For File Types In Windows
Windows is designed to make using your computer easy. One way it does this is by assigning default apps to different file types. This means when you open a file, Windows automatically opens it with a specific program. For example, photos may open with Photos, music with Groove Music, and PDFs with Edge. These default […]
How To Adjust The Mouse Pointer Speed: Complete Guide
Using a computer every day means you use the mouse a lot. The mouse pointer moves on the screen and helps you click, scroll, and select items. Many people never think about the speed of the mouse pointer. They have used the default setting for years. This can cause small problems over time. A slow […]
How to Change Mouse Scrolling Settings In Windows
A mouse is one of the most used computer tools. People use it every day. They scroll through emails. They scroll through documents. They scroll through websites and images. The movement becomes automatic. Most users do not notice it. That is why problems often go unnoticed. Scrolling problems show up slowly. At first, it feels […]
Keyboard Light Settings: Keyboard Lighting Control [Complete Guide]
Keyboards are no longer simple typing tools. Well, yes! Over time, they have evolved to include features that improve comfort, visibility, and overall experience. One of the most useful features today is keyboard lighting. It helps users work comfortably in low-light conditions. It also reduces strain when typing for long hours. Many users first notice […]
Customizing Pointer Appearance: Complete Guide
The way your mouse pointer looks on your computer may seem like a small detail. But customizing pointer appearance can make using your PC more comfortable and visually appealing. Many users do not realize that they can change the pointer size, color, and style to fit their needs. Whether you want a bigger pointer for […]
How To Choose a Computer Monitor: Monitor Buying Guide
Buying a monitor looks easy. Many people think all screens are the same. That belief causes regret later. A monitor is not just a display. It is a daily tool. You read on it. You work on it. You relax with it. Small problems become big over time. Poor brightness hurts eyes. Bad size causes […]
How To Get Help With File Explorer in Windows 11 [Complete Guide]
File Explorer is one of the most important tools in Windows 11. It is used to open folders, view files, and manage stored data. Almost every action on a Windows computer depends on it in some way. When users open documents, save downloads, or organize photos, File Explorer is always involved. Because it is used […]
How To Fix A Frozen Computer: Complete Guide [Windows 11/10]
A frozen computer is one of the most common problems Windows users face. The screen stops responding. The mouse pointer does not move. Keyboard inputs do nothing. You may hear the fan running loudly. Sometimes the system looks alive, but nothing works. This situation often happens when you are busy or working on something important. […]
How to Upgrade Computer RAM: Complete Guide
Upgrading RAM is one of the simplest ways to improve a computer. It helps the system feel faster and smoother. Apps open quicker. Browsers handle more tabs. Games and tools run with less delay. Many users search for how to upgrade computer RAM because it gives real results without high cost. You do not need […]
How To Clean Your Computer Keyboard: Complete Guide
A computer keyboard is touched more than almost any other device you own. It is used during work, study, gaming, and casual browsing. Fingers carry natural oils, sweat, and dirt. Small food crumbs fall between keys without notice. Dust settles each day slowly. Over time, this creates a hidden layer of grime. Many users do […]
