You can download and install previous versions of macOS on a compatible Mac.
To keep your Mac secure and stable, it’s best to use the latest macOS your Mac supports. But if you need an older version, you can still get it through the App Store or your web browser.
Use the App Store
To get macOS from the App Store, you need to use a Mac that supports that version. If it’s not compatible, the App Store will show a message such as “not compatible with this device” or “not available.” Here are the direct App Store links. If they don’t work, try opening them in Safari (in your Applications folder):
- Sequoia 15
- Sonoma 14
- Ventura 13
- Monterey 12
- Big Sur 11
- Catalina 10.15
- Mojave 10.14
- High Sierra 10.13
Click Get in the App Store to start downloading. Software Update may open and continue the process there.
After the installer downloads, it’s saved in your Applications folder and opens automatically. Follow the onscreen instructions to install, or quit if you want to use it later.
Use a web browser for older versions
Older macOS versions are available as disk images (.dmg) you can download with Safari or another browser. You must use a Mac that supports the version you want.
Here are the links:
By default, Safari saves downloads to your Downloads folder (open it from the Dock or Finder > Go > Downloads).
- Double-click the .dmg file to open it.
- Inside, double-click the .pkg file to install the macOS installer into your Applications folder.
- In Applications, open Install [macOS version] and follow the onscreen steps.
Next step
The next step is to create a bootable installer for macOS. Follow this link for the tutorial.