How to Uninstall Update on Mac?How to Find & Delete Old MacOS Updates?

Keeping your Mac running smoothly requires regular maintenance, and that includes managing software updates. The adage "Out with the old, in with the new" applies perfectly to outdated macOS updates, which consume valuable disk space and can impact performance. This guide explains how to safely remove old Mac updates, freeing up space and optimizing your system.

Where are macOS updates stored?

macOS updates are stored in the /Library/Updates folder. This folder contains downloaded update files, ready for installation when needed.

Can you delete old Mac updates?

Yes, deleting old updates reclaims disk space. However, proceed cautiously to avoid accidentally removing crucial system files. This guide provides safe methods to remove these files.

Why remove old Mac update files?

Removing outdated updates offers several benefits:

• Reclaims storage space: Creates room for new apps and data.
• Improves performance: Streamlines application switching and overall system responsiveness.
• Enhances stability: Reduces the risk of system glitches.

Preparing your Mac before removing updates

Before deleting any update files, take these preventative steps:

• Back up your data: Use Time Machine or another reliable backup method.
• Check system requirements: Ensure compatibility with current updates.
• Identify updates for removal: Avoid deleting essential components.
• Create a restore point: Allows you to revert to a previous state if needed.
• Clear temporary files: Frees up additional disk space.

How to delete old software updates on Mac

While macOS automatically removes outdated files during updates, manual removal is possible through several methods:

1. Using the Terminal:

This advanced method requires caution. For example, to remove a Monterey update, use the command sudo rm -rf Install macOS Monterey.app/. Remember to replace Monterey with your specific macOS version (e.g., Ventura, Catalina).

2. Removing updates from the Library:

1. Open Finder, go to Go > Go to Folder, and enter ~/Library/Updates/.
2. Locate and delete the unwanted update files by dragging them to the Trash. Empty the Trash afterwards.

3. Hiding updates from the App Store:

1. Open the App Store, go to the Updates tab.
2. Right-click on the update and select "Hide Update."

4. Deleting installation files (Finder or Launchpad):

• Finder: Navigate to /Library/Updates/ (show hidden files with Command-Shift-.), select and delete unwanted files.
• Launchpad: Locate the update, click and hold until it jiggles, then click the "X" to delete.

5. Using MacKeeper (or similar utility):

MacKeeper's Safe Cleanup feature can automatically detect and remove unnecessary files, including leftover update remnants.

Deleting old iOS updates on Mac

To remove old iOS updates:

1. Go to Apple menu > About This Mac > Storage.
2. Locate iOS files and click "Delete."

FAQ

How to verify complete removal of update files:

1. Check System Settings > General > Software Update for update history.
2. Verify storage space reduction in Apple menu > About This Mac > Storage.
3. Manually check /Library/Updates/ for any remaining files.

How to downgrade macOS: Downgrading is possible but complex and requires a Time Machine backup or a bootable installer. Consult Apple's support documentation for detailed instructions.

Should you enable automatic updates?: Automatic updates ensure timely security patches and system improvements. However, manual updates offer more control. The choice depends on personal preference.

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