How to update software on a MacBook Air without a password?

When I click on software updates, I get a request for password, but my MacBook Air Pro as not set up with a password. How do I update software or download new Apple software?


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: My MacBook Air is set up without a password. I want to update software, but it won

MacBook Air, macOS 13.7

Posted on Jun 11, 2025 4:12 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jun 11, 2025 5:03 PM

The software update password is usually the password to your Apple Account.


The local password (for Keychain or such) is the password to the login account, though you’ve apparently configured your Mac to not prompt for a password at login. (But the account and password does exist.)


How to log in automatically to a Mac user account - Apple Support


If you forgot your Mac login password - Apple Support


10 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jun 11, 2025 5:03 PM in response to TF1220

The software update password is usually the password to your Apple Account.


The local password (for Keychain or such) is the password to the login account, though you’ve apparently configured your Mac to not prompt for a password at login. (But the account and password does exist.)


How to log in automatically to a Mac user account - Apple Support


If you forgot your Mac login password - Apple Support


Jun 12, 2025 1:29 AM in response to TF1220

TF1220 wrote:

When I click on software updates, I get a request for password, but my MacBook Air Pro as not set up with a password. How do I update software or download new Apple software?

[Re-Titled by Moderator]
Original Title: My MacBook Air is set up without a password. I want to update software, but it won

Not possible


You can use Automatic Login if configured that way and under specific conditions


A Password is required for Security Reasons


The Reported Fact, that during the Update / UpGrade process, it specifically required a Computer passwords confirms this

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

How to update software on a MacBook Air without a password?

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.