What to Do If macOS Stuck on Checking for Updates

Apple releases Mac updates to improve the security and functionality of its devices. You can keep your Mac up to date by downloading and installing the latest updates for your apps.

Many apps will automatically check for updates and notify you when they are available. You can also check for updates manually by opening the App Store and selecting “Updates”.

Sometimes Mac gets stuck on checking for updates, which can be pretty frustrating. You may need help figuring out what to do or how to fix the problem.

In this blog post, we will discuss some possible solutions to this issue. We will also provide some tips on how to prevent your Mac from getting stuck on checking for updates in the future.

Causes

There are several reasons why your Mac might be stuck on checking for updates.

• Internet connectivity issue.
• Unresponsive Apple update servers.
• Software conflict.
• Limited Storage on your Mac.
• Corrupted software update file.

Potential Fixes

Stable Internet Connections

If your Mac is stuck on checking for updates, it’s likely because of a problem with your internet connection. To fix the issue, you’ll need to troubleshoot your internet connection and fix any problems preventing your Mac from connecting to the internet.

Check Apple Servers

If your Mac is stuck on checking for updates, you should check Apple’s servers to ensure no problems with the update process.

You can do this by visiting Apple’s website and clicking on the “Check for Update” button.

If there are any problems with the update process, there will be a red icon, and Apple will provide information on how to fix them. And if there is a green icon, there is nothing wrong with the apple server.

Also, it is vital to install old macOS versions if there is a glitch in the updated version till the time Apple fixes the bug.

Check Storage

Lack of storage space can also be the reason for your Mac to be stuck in the checking for updates screen. To fix this issue, you can free up some space and continue the update process.

First, open the Applications folder and identify any apps that you no longer need or use. Drag these apps to the Trash and empty the Trash. Next, check your Downloads folder for any large files you can delete.

Finally, review your iCloud storage settings and delete any unwanted files or apps.

Boot Mac in Safe Mode

Safe mode can help you get away with your’ checking for updates’ stuck screen. Safe mode is a diagnostic mode of macOS that starts your computer in a limited state.

In safe mode, your computer starts with only the essential services and processes necessary to function. This can be helpful for troubleshooting problems with your computer or restoring it to its default settings. To Boot your safe mode:

1. Shut down your Mac
2. Press and hold the power button until the Mac turns on and you see the startup sound
3. Release the power button and press and hold the “Shift” key until the Mac starts up in Safe Mode
4. Once your Mac has booted into Safe Mode, open Finder, and select applications
5. Launch “Software Update” and let it check for any available updates
6. If any updates are available, install them and restart your Mac.

Delete Cache Data

A full cache can result in slower processing and a lagging computer. Clear your App store cache data, as it might get in the way of your updates.

Reset Software Update Preference

Try resetting your software update preference to run your update smoothly.

To do this, open the “System Preferences” application, and click on the “Software Update” icon. In the window that appears, click on the “Reset” button. Confirm that you want to reset your preference by clicking the “Reset” button again.

Turn off VPN

When you turn on a VPN, it will lose your privacy and block data packets in the Proxy network. That’s why checking for updates on a Mac computer screen will always be stuck on “Checking.”

So there is one solution – Turn it off completely or try uninstalling this app after using its features again without any negative impact.

Reinstall macOS

If your Mac is stuck checking for updates, you may need to reinstall macOS. First, try restarting your computer and see if that fixes the problem. If it doesn’t, you can try force-quitting the App Store app and then restarting your computer again.

If those steps don’t work, you may need to reinstall macOS. You’ll need to create a bootable USB drive or CD to do this.

Final Thoughts

These are some troubleshooting steps that you can follow if your Mac is stuck on the checking for updates screen. You may need to contact Apple support for further assistance if you still have problems.