macOS Sequoia: a practical guide to upgrading, using, and fixing your Mac

macOS Sequoia brings new features and privacy options, but an update can also create hassles if you rush. This guide helps you check compatibility, prepare your Mac, use the key settings, and solve common problems without tech confusion.

Check compatibility and prepare to install

First, confirm if your Mac supports Sequoia by visiting Apple’s official compatibility page or checking System Settings > General > About. If you’re unsure, note your Mac model and year, then search "Apple support" plus that model.

Before you tap Update, back up. Use Time Machine or clone your drive with a tool like Carbon Copy Cloner. Backups let you roll back if an app breaks or files go missing.

Free up space: aim for at least 20–25 GB free. Uninstall unused apps, empty the Downloads folder, and move large media to an external drive or cloud. Also update critical apps first—some older apps need updates to work on the new OS.

What to change and check after installing

Start by checking System Settings. Turn on automatic updates for security patches, but delay beta features until you’re ready. Review Privacy & Security: look at Camera, Microphone, and Location permissions and revoke anything you don’t use.

Enable passkeys where offered to replace passwords on supported sites and apps. Passkeys are faster and safer because they use your device instead of a reusable password.

If Sequoia adds on-device intelligence (Apple often moves features to your Mac to protect data), check which apps use that and limit them if you prefer less automation. For Safari, set up Profiles to separate work and personal browsing and clear site data for trackers you don’t want.

Battery and performance: if your Mac feels slower at first, let it finish indexing (this can take hours). Turn off heavy visual effects in Accessibility > Display if you want a faster feel. For laptops, use the battery settings to switch between Better Battery and Higher Performance modes depending on need.

Troubleshooting quick fixes: boot into Safe Mode to see if an app causes crashes. Restart your Mac and hold Shift (Intel) or use the startup options on Apple Silicon. If Wi‑Fi or audio fails, try simple fixes first: restart router, check Bluetooth devices, and reset the app that’s misbehaving.

When nothing else works, reinstall macOS from Recovery mode to keep files intact while refreshing system files. If you feel stuck, Apple Support chat or an Apple Store appointment will save time.

Want to stay on top of Sequoia? Keep backups, review app permissions monthly, and update apps as developers release Sequoia-ready versions. Small maintenance now avoids big headaches later.