How to Use the Command 'softwareupdate' on macOS (with Examples)

The ‘softwareupdate’ command is a versatile tool for Mac users, enabling them to manage system and application updates directly from the Terminal. This command-line utility provides a powerful alternative to relying solely on the graphical interface of the Mac App Store. By using the ‘softwareupdate’ command, users can list, download, and install updates with ease and precision. Whether you’re an experienced developer seeking speed and efficiency or a systems administrator looking to automate updates across a network, this command offers a range of options to keep your system up to date. Below, we explore several use cases to demonstrate its functionality.

Use Case 1: List All Available Updates

Code:

softwareupdate --list

Motivation:

One of the foundational steps in managing updates is awareness of what’s available. By listing all updates, users can make informed decisions about whether to install specific updates immediately or delay them. This is particularly useful for those who manage systems in environments where stability is crucial and updates need to be vetted before installation.

Explanation:

• softwareupdate: This is the base command that interacts with the macOS software update system.
• --list: This flag tells the command to output a list of all available updates. It helps users identify pending updates without making any changes to the system.

Example Output:

Finding available software
Software Update found the following new or updated software:
   * macOS Monterey 12.6
      - macOS 12.6.1 Update (Recommended)
   * Safari 16.0 Update

Use Case 2: Download and Install All Updates

Code:

softwareupdate --install --all

Motivation:

In situations where it’s important to ensure that all updates are applied promptly, this command is particularly beneficial. It can be used in scenarios where security patches are critical and must be applied systematically across multiple machines without manual intervention.

Explanation:

• softwareupdate: This utility command accesses and controls the update subsystem on macOS.
• --install: This flag instructs the command to proceed with the installation of updates.
• --all: When combined with --install, this flag ensures that every available update is downloaded and installed, securing the system with the latest improvements and fixes.

Example Output:

Downloading macOS 12.6.1 Update
Installing macOS 12.6.1 Update
Installing Safari 16.0 Update
[...]

Use Case 3: Download and Install All Recommended Updates

Code:

softwareupdate --install --recommended

Motivation:

Often, not every update is necessary or advisable for every user. Apple designates certain updates as “recommended,” typically for reasons of security or significant performance enhancements. By focusing on recommended updates, users can prioritize important enhancements while possibly deferring less critical ones.

Explanation:

• softwareupdate: The command accesses macOS’s software update resources.
• --install: Directs the command to install the updates it downloads.
• --recommended: A filter in conjunction with --install that focuses the installation process on recommended updates as determined by Apple.

Example Output:

Downloading and installing recommended updates:
   * macOS 12.6.1 Security Update
   * Safari 16.0 Recommended Update

Use Case 4: Download and Install a Specific App

Code:

softwareupdate --install update_name

Motivation:

At times, a user may need to update a single application due to specific bug fixes or new features that it offers. This command is particularly useful for developers who need to ensure compatibility with a specific version of an application or users who encounter issues with just one app.

Explanation:

• softwareupdate: The command-line interface for managing updates.
• --install: Ensures that the specified update is installed.
• update_name: The placeholder for the specific update or app that the user wants to target. This requires the exact identifier for the update.

Example Output:

Downloading update for Safari 16.0
Installing Safari 16.0 Update

Conclusion:

The ‘softwareupdate’ command is a powerful tool in a macOS user’s arsenal, offering fine-grained control over the update process. From listing updates to installing all or specific updates, it provides a level of detail and control ideal for advanced users and systems administrators. By understanding and applying the use cases described, users can maintain their macOS systems with confidence and precision.