How to Update Safari on Mac: Fix Version & Speed Issues
- Gunashree RS
- 5 hours ago
- 7 min read
Safari is Apple's flagship browser, designed specifically for macOS to deliver optimal performance and energy efficiency. Keeping Safari updated ensures you have access to the latest features, security patches, and compatibility improvements. However, the update process varies depending on your Mac's age and operating system version. This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to update Safari on Mac across different scenarios, from the newest macOS versions to older systems that require special attention.
Understanding Safari Updates and macOS
Before diving into specific update methods, it's important to understand a fundamental aspect of Safari: unlike many other web browsers, Safari is deeply integrated with macOS. This integration means that Safari updates are typically delivered through macOS system updates rather than as standalone updates.
This approach offers several advantages:
System-wide security: Updates can address vulnerabilities at both the browser and system levels
Performance optimization: Safari is tailored to work efficiently with your specific macOS version
Feature consistency: The browser and operating system evolve together, ensuring compatibility
However, this integration also creates challenges when trying to update Safari on older Mac systems. The method you'll need to use depends entirely on which macOS version you're currently running.
Let's explore the different approaches based on your Mac's situation:
How to Update Safari on Modern macOS (Monterey, Big Sur, Catalina, and Mojave)
For Mac computers running relatively recent operating systems (macOS Mojave and newer), updating Safari is straightforward through the standard Software Update process.
Follow these simple steps:
Click on the Apple menu (🍎) in the top-left corner of your screen
Select "System Preferences" (or "System Settings" in newer versions)
Click on "Software Update."
If updates are available, you'll see an "Update Now" button
Click this button to install all available updates, including Safari updates
Enter your administrator password if prompted
Wait for the download and installation to complete
Restart your Mac if required
For the most seamless experience, enable automatic updates by checking the box labeled "Automatically keep my Mac up to date" in the Software Update preferences. This ensures you'll always have the latest Safari version without manual intervention.
Updating Safari on Older macOS Versions (High Sierra, Sierra, El Capitan)
For Mac computers running High Sierra (10.13), Sierra (10.12), or El Capitan (10.11), the update process remains similar but may show a slightly different interface:
Click the Apple menu (🍎)
Select "App Store"
Click on the "Updates" tab
Look for any available Safari or macOS updates
Click "Update" next to the relevant items
Enter your Apple ID password if prompted
Allow the download and installation to complete
Restart when prompted
If you don't see any updates but suspect you're not running the latest Safari version, try checking for any available macOS updates, as Safari updates are typically bundled with these.
Special Considerations for Very Old Macs (Pre-El Capitan)
For truly older Mac systems running Yosemite (10.10), Mavericks (10.9), or earlier, updating Safari becomes more challenging because:
Apple no longer provides security updates for these operating systems
The latest Safari versions are incompatible with these older systems
The App Store on these systems may no longer connect to Apple's update servers
However, you still have options:
Option 1: Update Your macOS (Recommended)
The most effective solution is upgrading your macOS to a newer version that supports current Safari releases. Check if your Mac can run a newer macOS:
Mac Model | Earliest Year | Latest Supported macOS |
MacBook | 2015 or later | Current macOS |
MacBook Air | 2013 or later | Current macOS |
MacBook Pro | 2013 or later | Current macOS |
Mac mini | 2014 or later | Current macOS |
iMac | 2014 or later | Current macOS |
iMac Pro | All models | Current macOS |
Mac Pro | 2013 or later | Current macOS |
If your Mac supports a newer macOS:
Back up your data using Time Machine
Go to the App Store
Search for the latest compatible macOS
Download and install it
Safari will automatically update as part of this process
Option 2: Alternative Browsers for Older Macs
If updating macOS isn't possible, consider using an alternative browser that still provides updates for older systems:
Firefox Extended Support Release: Offers security updates for older systems
Chrome: Supports some older macOS versions longer than Safari
Opera: May work on systems where other browsers have dropped support
While not ideal from a system integration perspective, these browsers can provide a more secure browsing experience on older Macs than an outdated Safari version of Safari.
Troubleshooting Safari Update Issues
Sometimes, Safari updates don't proceed smoothly. Here are solutions for common problems:
Update Not Appearing
If you can't find a Safari update but believe one should be available:
Ensure you're connected to the internet
Restart your Mac and check again
Try a different network connection
Reset the NVRAM/PRAM by restarting while holding Option+Command+P+R
Check if your macOS version still receives updates (see compatibility table above)
Update Fails to Install
If Safari updates fail during installation:
Ensure you have sufficient storage space (at least 10GB free)
Close all applications and try again
Boot into Safe Mode (restart while holding Shift) and try updating
Create a new user account and attempt the update there
Run First Aid in Disk Utility on your startup disk
Safari Performance Issues After Update
If Safari experiences problems after updating:
Clear Safari cache and website data:
Open Safari
Click Safari in the menu bar
Select "Clear History and Website Data."
Choose the time range and click "Clear."
Reset Safari completely:
Quit Safari
Hold Option while reopening Safari
Click "Reset Safari" when prompted
Select items to reset and confirm
Advanced Tips for Safari Management
For users who want more control over their Safari experience:
Check Your Current Safari Version
To verify your current Safari version:
Open Safari
Click "Safari" in the menu bar
Select "About Safari."
Note the version number displayed
Disable Automatic Safari Updates
While not recommended for security reasons, you can disable automatic Safari updates:
Open System Preferences/Settings
Select "Software Update."
Click "Advanced"
Uncheck "Install browser updates."
Testing Safari Technology Preview
For those interested in upcoming features, Safari Technology Preview offers early access:
Visit the Apple Developer website
Download Safari Technology Preview for your macOS version
Install alongside your regular Safari
Receive update notifications through System Preferences
This version runs separately from your standard Safari and lets you test new features without affecting your primary browsing environment.
Conclusion
Keeping Safari updated on your Mac is essential for maximum security, performance, and website compatibility. For most users with modern Macs, the process is straightforward through standard system updates. For those with older systems, more creative solutions may be necessary, including potential macOS upgrades or alternative browsers.
Remember that Safari's tight integration with macOS means browser updates and system updates go hand-in-hand. This relationship ensures Safari is optimized specifically for your Mac, but also means update options become limited for older systems.
By following the appropriate method for your specific Mac configuration, you can ensure the best possible browsing experience with the latest features and security protections.
Key Takeaways
Safari updates come through macOS system updates rather than standalone updates.
For macOS Mojave and newer, use System Preferences > Software Update
For El Capitan through High Sierra, check the App Store's Updates tab
Very old Macs (pre-El Capitan) may require upgrading macOS or switching browsers
Common update issues can be resolved through troubleshooting steps like clearing the cache or resetting the NVRAM
Check your Safari version through "About Safari" in the Safari menu
Safari Technology Preview offers early access to upcoming features
Regular updates are essential for security and optimal performance
Alternative browsers provide options for Macs that can no longer receive Safari updates
FAQs About Updating Safari on Mac
How do I know if my Safari needs updating?
You can check your current Safari version by clicking on "Safari" in the menu bar and selecting "About Safari." Compare this with the latest version available for your macOS. Generally, if your system software is up to date, so is Safari.
Can I update Safari without updating macOS?
No, Safari updates are bundled with macOS updates. You cannot update Safari independently of your operating system, unlike third-party browsers like Chrome or Firefox.
Why does my old Mac say Safari can't be updated?
If your Mac is running an older version of macOS that Apple no longer supports (generally those older than 7 years), you won't be able to update Safari. Your options include upgrading to a newer macOS if your hardware supports it or switching to an alternative browser.
How often should I update Safari?
You should update Safari whenever updates are available, as they often contain important security fixes. Enabling automatic updates ensures you're always protected without having to check manually.
Will updating Safari delete my bookmarks and history?
No, updating Safari doesn't delete your bookmarks, history, or saved passwords. These items are preserved during the update process. However, it's always good practice to back up important data before any system update.
What can I do if my Mac is too old to update Safari?
If your Mac can't run a newer macOS version, consider alternative browsers like Firefox Extended Support Release or Chrome, which may continue supporting your older system longer than Safari.
Why is Safari running slowly after updating?
After updating, Safari may need to rebuild caches and optimize its performance. Try clearing Safari's cache and website data, or reset Safari completely if performance issues persist.
Is there a way to download older versions of Safari?
Apple doesn't officially provide downloads for older Safari versions. Since Safari is integrated with macOS, the only way to "downgrade" would be to restore your Mac to an earlier macOS version from a backup.