macOS High Sierra (version 10.13) was released in 2017 as a free upgrade from older systems like El Capitan (10.11). While Apple no longer provides direct download links from the Mac App Store for High Sierra (support ended in 2020), you can still obtain and install it on compatible hardware using official installers from Apple’s support site or third-party recovery methods. This process requires a compatible Mac, a stable internet connection, and at least 20 GB of free disk space.
Important Warning:
- High Sierra is unsupported by Apple (no security updates since January 2020).
- Installing it on modern hardware or for daily use is not recommended due to security risks.
- If possible, upgrade to a supported macOS version (e.g., Ventura or later) via a newer Mac or clean install.
- Back up your data with Time Machine before proceeding.
Step 1: Check Compatibility
High Sierra supports the following Macs:
| Mac Model | Year |
|---|---|
| iMac | Late 2009 or later |
| MacBook | Late 2009 or later |
| MacBook Pro | 2010 or later |
| MacBook Air | 2010 or later |
| Mac mini | 2010 or later |
| Mac Pro | 2010 or later |
Step 2: Back Up Your Mac
- Connect an external drive.
- Open Time Machine (System Preferences → Time Machine).
- Select your backup disk and click Back Up Now.
Alternatively, clone your drive using Carbon Copy Cloner or SuperDuper!.
Step 3: Download macOS High Sierra Installer
Apple removed High Sierra from the Mac App Store, but provides direct download links via support articles.
Option A: Official Apple Download (Recommended)
- Go to Apple’s support page: 🔗 https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT211683 (“How to download and install macOS” – scroll to legacy versions)
- Find macOS High Sierra → click the link to download the full installer (~5.1 GB).Direct link (as of 2025): https://apps.apple.com/us/app/macos-high-sierra/id1246284741 (May redirect; use Safari on a Mac)
- The installer will appear in your Applications folder as: Install macOS High Sierra.app
Do not run it yet.
Option B: Create a Bootable USB Installer (Recommended for Clean Installs)
You’ll need:
- 16 GB+ USB drive
- The High Sierra installer in Applications
Create Bootable USB:
- Plug in the USB drive.
- Open Terminal and run:
bash
sudo /Applications/Install\ macOS\ High\ Sierra.app/Contents/Resources/createinstallmedia --volume /Volumes/MyUSB --applicationpath /Applications/Install\ macOS\ High\ Sierra.appReplace MyUSB with your USB drive’s name (check in Finder).
Enter your admin password and wait (~15–20 mins).
I would only recommend this if you intend to install the USB on serval machines otherwise installing it from the applications folder is your best option.
Step 4: Install High Sierra
Option 1: Upgrade in Place (Keep Files & Apps)
- Double-click Install macOS High Sierra.app in Applications.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
- The Mac will restart multiple times.
- Installation takes 30–60 minutes.
Option 2: Clean Install (Erase Everything – Recommended for Stability)
- Boot from the USB installer:
- Shut down your Mac.
- Hold Option (⌥) key → select the USB drive → boot.
- Open Disk Utility → select your internal drive → Erase (Mac OS Extended, GUID).
- Quit Disk Utility → choose Install macOS → select the erased drive.
Step 5: Post-Installation
- Update High Sierra (if any patches exist):
- Go to System Preferences → Software Update.
- Install Combo Update 10.13.6 (final version).
- Install security tools:
- Use Little Snitch, Lulu, or OpenCore Legacy Patcher (for extended updates via OCLP).
- Patch for modern browsing (optional):
- Use OpenCore Legacy Patcher to enable newer Safari or security updates: 🔗 https://github.com/dortania/OpenCore-Legacy-Patcher
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| “Installer is damaged” | Redownload or disable Gatekeeper: sudo spctl –master-disable |
| Not enough space | Free up 20+ GB or use external boot |
| Stuck at Apple logo | Reset NVRAM: Command + Option + P + R at boot |
| Can’t find installer | Use Internet Recovery (Command + Option + R) → install older OS |
Final Recommendation
Do not use High Sierra as your daily OS in 2025. Instead:
- Upgrade to macOS Mojave or later if your Mac supports it.
- Use OpenCore Legacy Patcher to run Sonoma or Sequoia on unsupported Macs.
- Consider a newer/used Mac for security.
You’ve successfully upgraded from El Capitan to High Sierra!
