🚨 How to Fix macOS Update Stuck or An error occurred
🚨 How to Fix macOS Update Stuck or An error occurred during macOS installation
If your Mac is getting stuck during a macOS update or you're running into network-related errors, don’t panic. Try these proven methods to get things running smoothly again.
✅ 1. Check Your Internet Connection
Before diving deeper, rule out any network issues:
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Switch networks: Try connecting to a different Wi-Fi network—home, office, or a mobile hotspot. This helps eliminate potential issues with a specific network.
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Disable VPNs or security software: If you're using a VPN or any third-party security software, temporarily disable it. These tools can interfere with macOS’s connection to Apple’s update servers.
🔁 2. Reset NVRAM (for Intel-based Macs)
NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random-Access Memory) stores system settings. If corrupted, it could prevent updates from completing.
To reset NVRAM:
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Completely shut down your Mac.
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Turn it back on and immediately press and hold Option + Command + P + R.
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Keep holding the keys for about 20 seconds. Release them after you hear the startup sound for the second time (on supported models).
⚠️ This method only applies to Intel Macs. M1 and M2 Macs manage this automatically.
🛡️ 3. Update in Safe Mode
Safe Mode starts macOS with only essential drivers and disables third-party extensions. It’s ideal for troubleshooting update problems.
How to enter Safe Mode:
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On Apple Silicon (M1/M2) Macs:
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Shut down your Mac completely.
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Press and hold the power button until you see “Loading startup options.”
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Select your startup disk, hold down the Shift key, and click Continue in Safe Mode.
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On Intel-based Macs:
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Shut down your Mac.
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Turn it on and immediately press and hold the Shift key.
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Release the key when you see the login window.
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Once in Safe Mode, try installing the macOS update again.
🔧 4. Restore Firmware via DFU Mode (T2 & Apple Silicon Macs)
If your Mac is unresponsive or the update process is totally frozen, a firmware restore might be needed. This requires a second Mac and a USB-C cable.
Steps:
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Connect your non-working Mac to another working Mac using a USB-C cable.
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Launch Apple Configurator 2 on the working Mac.
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Follow the appropriate DFU button combination for your Mac model (Apple has a guide).
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Use Apple Configurator to revive or restore your Mac’s firmware.
⚠️ This process is advanced. If you're not confident, get help from an Apple Authorized Service Provider.
🧑💻 Still Stuck?
If none of these methods help, it’s time to reach out to Apple Support or visit your nearest Apple Store for professional diagnostics.
Also you're welcome to send the laptop to us for a full diagnostic — our software engineer can take a closer look and run deeper tests.
