Should I Update My 2018 MacBook After Seven Years? Risks and Recommendations
Many long-term MacBook users find themselves in a common dilemma: whether to update their device’s operating system after several years of use. This issue is particularly relevant for those who rely heavily on their laptops for creative work, as stability and compatibility are critical. In this article, we’ll explore the potential risks of updating a MacBook that hasn’t been maintained with software updates for several years, and offer guidance on how to proceed safely.
The Context: A Long-Standing, Unupdated MacBook
Imagine a user who purchased their MacBook in 2018, beginning their college journey with it. Over the years, they avoided updates due to fears of stability issues—particularly a notorious incident with macOS Mojave, where some users experienced random shutdowns after updating. One such user reported that an update caused their device to shut off unexpectedly, and Apple was unable to resolve the problem.
For creative professionals, especially those in art school, this was a significant concern. Since their workflow depended on their laptop—particularly using Adobe Creative Suite—they couldn’t afford any unexpected downtime or data loss. Consequently, they chose to stick with the original system, avoiding updates and neglecting regular backups to preserve their work environment.
The Modern Day: Compatibility Challenges
Fast forward to 2025, and the user faces new challenges. Their Adobe Illustrator is no longer opening properly, and they suspect that a reinstall might be necessary. However, reinstalling the software would currently require updating the MacOS to ensure compatibility with newer application versions.
But here lies the concern: Will updating a seven-year-old MacBook brick the device? This fear stems from the possibility that a major system upgrade could destabilize or damage aging hardware, especially if the device has not been maintained or updated periodically.
The Risks of Updating an Old MacBook
While modern macOS updates are designed for compatibility and safety, older hardware can sometimes experience issues during or after a system upgrade. Potential risks include:
- Hardware incompatibility: Newer macOS versions may push the limits of older components, leading to performance issues or hardware failures.
- System instability: Outdated firmware or hardware wear can cause problems during an update.
- Data loss: Without current backups, there is a risk of losing important files if something goes wrong during the update process.
However, it’s important to note that many users successfully update their older Mac
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