eeping your computer updated is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your business from security threats, software issues, and performance problems.
Both Windows and macOS release regular updates that include:

• Security patches

• Bug fixes

• Performance improvements

• New features

This guide explains how to safely check for, install, and manage updates on your device.

🛡️ Why Updates Matter

Running updates helps:

• Prevent malware and ransomware attacks

• Fix security vulnerabilities

• Improve system stability and speed

• Ensure compatibility with business apps

• Reduce crashes and errors

Outdated systems are one of the most common causes of security breaches.

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✅ 1. Updating Windows (Windows 10 or 11)

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Windows updates can include cumulative patches, feature upgrades, and optional driver updates.

Step 1: Open Windows Update Settings

1. Click Start

2. Select Settings

3. Choose Update & Security (Windows 10)
   or Windows Update (Windows 11)

Step 2: Check for Updates

Click Check for updates.

Windows will show:

• Pending updates

• Optional updates

• Restart required messages

Step 3: Install Required Updates

Click Download or Install when prompted.

Windows may install:

• Security patches

• Feature updates

• Driver updates

• Microsoft product updates

Step 4: Restart Safely

If the system requires a restart:

1. Save all open work

2. Close applications

3. Click Restart now or schedule for later

Never shut down your computer manually during an update.

Step 5: Confirm Update Completion

After restarting:

1. Return to Windows Update

2. Ensure it says You’re up to date

If errors appear, take a screenshot and contact support.

✔ Optional: Pause Updates (If Needed)

This can be helpful during busy work periods.

Go to:
Settings → Windows Update → Pause updates

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✅ 2. Updating macOS (MacBook, iMac, Mac Mini)

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macOS updates include security patches, new features, and app updates.

Step 1: Open System Settings

1. Click the Apple Menu ()

2. Select System Settings (or System Preferences on older versions)

Step 2: Go to Software Update

Navigate to:
General → Software Update

macOS will automatically check for available updates.

Step 3: Install Available Updates

You may see:

• Security updates

• macOS point updates (e.g., 14.4 → 14.5)

• Major upgrades (e.g., macOS Ventura → Sonoma)

For business use:

We recommend installing point updates and security patches,
but checking with IT before installing major OS upgrades.

Click Update Now or Upgrade Now to begin installation.

Step 4: Restart Your Mac

macOS updates typically require a restart.

• Save your work

• Close applications

• Allow the update process to finish without interruption

Step 5: Verify Update Completion

After restarting:

1. Return to Software Update

2. Confirm that your Mac says Up to date

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🛠️ Safe Update Practices for Both Systems

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These tips help avoid data loss or system issues during updates.

1. Back Up Important Files First

Use OneDrive, SharePoint, Zoho WorkDrive, or Google Drive to back up your documents before updating.

2. Use a Reliable Internet Connection

Avoid running updates on unstable Wi-Fi or public networks.

3. Do Not Turn Off Your Computer During Updates

Interrupting updates may cause:

• Boot failures

• Corruption

• System rollback errors

4. Close Applications Before Updating

This prevents software conflicts.

5. Install Updates Outside Peak Work Hours

Some updates take 10–45 minutes.

6. Contact Support Before Installing Major OS Upgrades

Major upgrades (e.g., Windows 10 → 11, macOS Monterey → Ventura) can affect:

• Business software compatibility

• Hardware drivers

• VPN tools

Always check with IT if unsure.

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🚨 When to Contact OneStop Northwest Support

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If:

• Updates fail or get stuck

• Your device won’t restart

• You see repeated error messages

• A business application stops working after updating

• You're unsure about installing a major update

Provide a screenshot if possible — this speeds up troubleshooting.