Turn off automatic updates in System Preferences

Open System Preferences by clicking the Apple menu in the top-left corner and selecting System Preferences. Click Software Update (or System Update on older versions). You will see a checkbox that says "Automatically keep my Mac up to date" — uncheck it.

Once you uncheck this box, your MacBook Air 2017 will stop downloading and installing updates without asking. You will still receive notifications when updates are available, but the installation will not happen on its own. You can then choose when to install them yourself.

If you do not see the automatic update checkbox, your version of macOS may have moved this setting. Look for an "Advanced" button in the Software Update window — click it and uncheck "Install system data files and security updates" and "Install macOS updates".

Key Takeaways

  • Automatic updates are controlled through System Preferences under the Software Update section, where you uncheck the box next to "Automatically keep my Mac up to date".
  • Turning off automatic installation does not prevent update notifications — you will still be told when updates are available, but they will not install without your permission.
  • Older versions of macOS may have the automatic update settings under an Advanced button within Software Update.
  • You can manually install updates whenever you choose by opening Software Update and clicking the Install button yourself.

What happens after you turn off automatic updates

Your MacBook Air will continue to check for updates and notify you when they are ready. A notification will appear in the top-right corner of your screen, and a red dot will show on the Software Update icon in System Preferences. You remain in control of when the installation happens.

This means you can delay updates if you are in the middle of important work, or install them during a time that works for you — such as overnight or during a weekend. You will not wake up to find your Mac restarting unexpectedly.

Manually installing updates when you are ready

When you decide to install an update, open System Preferences and click Software Update. The available update will be listed with an Install button next to it. Click Install and enter your password when prompted. Your Mac may restart during the process, so save your work first.

You can also check for updates manually at any time by opening System Preferences and clicking Software Update, then clicking the Check Now button. This is useful if you want to see whether a new update has been released without waiting for the automatic notification.

Why you might want to turn off automatic updates

Automatic updates can interrupt your work by restarting your Mac without warning. If you work with large files, run long processes, or depend on your MacBook Air staying on for specific tasks, unexpected restarts can cause problems. Turning off automatic installation gives you the ability to choose a convenient time.

Some users also prefer to wait a few days after an update is released before installing it, in case early versions have bugs that are fixed in a follow-up release. This approach lets you avoid problems that other users discover first.

Security considerations when you manage updates yourself

While you have control over when updates install, security updates are important and should not be delayed indefinitely. Apple releases security updates to fix vulnerabilities that could affect your data or privacy. Plan to install them within a week or two of receiving the notification.

If you turn off automatic updates and then forget to install them, your Mac becomes more vulnerable over time. Set a reminder to check Software Update at least once a month, or consider turning automatic updates back on if you find yourself consistently delaying installations.

Re-enabling automatic updates if you change your mind

If you decide later that you prefer automatic updates, the process is simple. Open System Preferences, click Software Update, and check the box next to "Automatically keep my Mac up to date". Your MacBook Air will resume installing updates on its own schedule.

You can switch between automatic and manual updates as many times as you want. There is no penalty for changing your preference, and your Mac will remember whichever setting you choose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my Mac still get security updates if I turn off automatic installation?

No — turning off automatic updates stops all updates, including security ones. Your Mac will notify you when security updates are available, but they will not install unless you manually do it. You should install security updates promptly when notified.

Can I schedule updates to install at a specific time instead of turning them off completely?

macOS 2017 does not have a built-in scheduling feature for updates. Your only options are automatic installation or manual installation. If you want updates to happen at night, you can leave your Mac on and manually install them before bed, or turn automatic updates back on.

What if I see an update notification but I am not ready to install it yet?

You can ignore the notification and install the update later. The notification will remain visible, but you can close it and continue working. Open Software Update whenever you are ready, and the update will still be there waiting for you.

Does turning off automatic updates affect other types of app updates?

No — this setting only controls macOS system updates. Updates for individual apps like Safari, Mail, or third-party programs are controlled separately. You can manage those through the App Store or each app's own preferences.

Why does my Mac sometimes restart even though I turned off automatic updates?

If your Mac is restarting unexpectedly, check that automatic updates are actually turned off by opening System Preferences and confirming the checkbox is unchecked. Also check whether you manually started an update installation — some updates require a restart to complete.