Big sur a software update is required to use this startup disk. For various reasons, I want to boot from this hard drive.

Big sur a software update is required to use this startup disk 6), and I'm trying to update it to the current version of MacOS Ventura. If I choose update it then throws another message saying there has been an Jun 27, 2023 · Changing startup disk for MacOS update I'm currently running MacOS Big Sur (11. As for those attempting to install the operating system from a bootable USB, the first button doesn't give them the option to choose the external disk. 1. Repair your startup disk Dec 15, 2020 · When I try to update my Macbook, I get this message: “A software update is required to use this startup disk” , but it does not update and it continues to pop up. Feb 27, 2023 · When I try to use a USB key to install, I end up with a dialog saying "A software update is required to use this startup disk" with the options 'Update' or 'set a new Startup Disk'. This situation can occur if you’ve installed a newer OS version on an external drive or if the internal disk has an outdated OS. Aug 5, 2025 · Explains how to eliminate 'An internet connection is required to install macOS' when installing macOS Ventura, Monterey, Big Sur, Catalina, Mojave, etc. ” If I click "Yes," it tries to update, restarts, and then shows the exact same message again — stuck in a loop. One of the common messages that users get is “Software Update is required to use this startup disk”. 15 Posted on Jan 23, 2021 2:32 PM Mar 30, 2025 · Conclusion: Encountering the “A software update is required to use this startup disk” message can be frustrating, but it’s usually solvable with a few simple steps. This doesn't require an Internet connection or updated integrity information from Apple, so it doesn't prevent your Mac from using an OS that is no longer trusted by Apple Apr 29, 2025 · Install from macOS Recovery To ensure that no other software on your Mac can interfere with installation, install macOS from macOS Recovery. On a 2019 MBP 13-inch, Big Sur 11. Jan 23, 2021 · Stuck at 'choose startup disk' after downloading Big Sur I've just downloaded the Big Sur on my MacBook air. Despite all these innovations, the current operating software detects errors during the installation process – especially in Monterey and Ventura beta versions. Why isn’t updating? : ( ( Sep 25, 2022 · How to fix "A software update is required to use this startup disk" error? Hi! I have my old Macbook hard drive in an external enclosure. The screen says ‘a software update is required to use this startup disk. After it was completed I got shown an error mistake: 'An error occurred preparing the software update'. The update fails no matter what you try. By checking for updates, resetting NVRAM, or even reformatting the disk if necessary, you can get your system back up and running in no time. Then I'm supposed to choose a disk, but no disks are appearing. Aug 12, 2024 · This message often arises when there is a discrepancy between the version of the operating system on your startup disk and the system firmware. Using MacOS update facility on reboot for update install I get an error: "A software update is required to use this startup disk" with options to "update" or "select startup disk" (or something like this). Aug 19, 2025 · When I proceed, I get the error: “A software update is required to use this startup disk. 0. For the same reason, if you’re installing via the App Store or Software Update instead of Recovery, it might help to start up in safe mode before installing. The fix is to use another Macbook, ins Oct 12, 2021 · MacBook Pro failed to update My MacBook Pro failed to update and I am stuck on opt recovery assistant. Usually the only time that you would see this is if you keep WIFi off, or you have your Mac turned off for a longer than normal period of time. . Aug 15, 2024 · Every now and then the computer will need to verify with Apple that the startup disk has an authoirzed version of macOS installed. ' on Mac Monterey or other macOS? Here are the solutions to fix the error when booting from USB or Sep 17, 2025 · Here is a quick navigation of how to fix a software update required to use this startup disk: Are you encountering the " a software update is required to use this startup disk " error? Though Apple constantly innovates its operating system, some undesirable issues are prevalent. Oct 4, 2021 · From that article: Medium Security During startup when Medium Security is turned on, your Mac verifies the OS on your startup disk only by making sure that it has been properly signed by Apple (macOS) or Microsoft (Windows). For instance, if you’ve upgraded to macOS Big Sur on an external SSD but your internal drive is still on macOS Catalina For users who are trying to update macOS, selecting "Startup Disk" leads to an empty list. The drive still works great, connects to my new computer and I can access it fine. Oct 30, 2025 · If you try to boot your Mac from an external disk and see “A software update is required to use this startup disk,” we’ll show you how to fix it. Apple Macbook - A software update is required to use this startup disk error. MacBook Air 13″, macOS 10. 0 20A5384c updating to 11. For various reasons, I want to boot from this hard drive. Oct 9, 2025 · Getting 'A software update is required to use this startup disk. ’ And I have two options to try again or select ‘startup disk’ when I click try again I am brought back to the same thing. This normally should be done in the background. qyyytw jxnf hdjqru toy imoziq kvjj osyqba hjuvfgw ucmu nzjy ozx izps mkczei babhqf nufzbx