What is softwareupdated on a Mac? macOS's update service
What the softwareupdated process does in macOS, why it can use CPU or memory, and whether you can stop it.
What is softwareupdated?
softwareupdated checks for, downloads and prepares macOS and system updates.
Why is softwareupdated using CPU or memory?
It uses network and CPU while downloading and preparing an update, which can take a while for a major release. It also checks periodically in the background.
Can I stop softwareupdated?
Pausing it is not needed. Turn off automatic downloads in System Settings, General, Software Update if you want to choose when updates download.
Reduce Mac data usage explains Low Data Mode.
Common questions
Is softwareupdated safe on a Mac?
Yes. It is part of macOS. softwareupdated checks for, downloads and prepares macOS and system updates..
Can I quit softwareupdated?
Pausing it is not needed.