On February 11, 2026, Apple released macOS Sequoia 15.7.4, an important security and stability update for Macs running macOS Sequoia. While it doesn’t introduce new features, this update plays a critical role in protecting your Mac against security vulnerabilities and improving system reliability.
Here’s what macOS Sequoia 15.7.4 includes — and what to do if you experience issues after installing it.
💻 What Is macOS Sequoia 15.7.4?
macOS Sequoia 15.7.4 is a point update to macOS Sequoia (version 15). It’s designed for users who are:
- Running macOS Sequoia instead of upgrading to macOS Tahoe
- Using Macs that are supported on Sequoia
- Waiting before moving to a newer macOS version
This release focuses primarily on security patches, bug fixes, and compatibility improvements.
🔐 What’s New in macOS Sequoia 15.7.4?
1. Security Fixes
The most important part of this update is a collection of security patches addressing vulnerabilities in:
- WebKit (Safari’s web engine)
- Kernel components
- System libraries
- App sandbox protections
- Memory handling and file parsing frameworks
Some of these vulnerabilities could potentially allow:
- Remote code execution through malicious web content
- Privilege escalation
- Application crashes or system instability
Installing this update helps protect your Mac from web-based threats and exploit chains.
2. Safari 26.3 Integration
macOS Sequoia 15.7.4 includes Safari 26.3, which brings:
- WebKit security improvements
- JavaScript engine hardening
- Improved website compatibility
- Stability fixes for web apps
Because WebKit is used across macOS (not just in Safari), these updates enhance overall system security.
3. Stability and Reliability Improvements
Apple also addressed minor bugs that could cause:
- Unexpected app crashes
- Finder instability
- Bluetooth connectivity issues
- Occasional system freezes
Most changes are under-the-hood improvements aimed at improving overall system performance.
⚠️ Common Problems After Updating (And How To Fix Them)
Although most updates install without issue, some users may notice temporary problems.
🔋 Battery Drain (MacBooks)
After updating, Spotlight and system processes may re-index files.
✅ Fix:
- Leave your Mac plugged in for several hours
- Restart once after installation
- Check System Settings > Battery for high-usage apps
- Update all third-party apps
Battery performance usually stabilizes within 24–48 hours.
🐢 Mac Running Slow
✅ Fix:
- Restart your Mac
- Check Activity Monitor for high CPU usage
- Allow Spotlight indexing to finish
- Ensure at least 20% of your disk is free
If slowness continues:
- Boot into Safe Mode, then restart normally
📶 Wi‑Fi or Bluetooth Issues
✅ Fix:
- Toggle Wi‑Fi/Bluetooth off and back on
- Restart your Mac
- Forget and reconnect to Wi‑Fi networks
- Reset Bluetooth module (advanced users)
If necessary:
- Reset network settings or remove network preference files
🧩 Apps Not Opening or Crashing
Security updates sometimes expose compatibility issues with older apps.
✅ Fix:
- Update the app
- Reinstall the app
- Check with the developer for compatibility updates
- Boot into Safe Mode to test
If an app says it’s damaged:
- Delete it and reinstall from a trusted source
🔄 Update Won’t Install
✅ Try:
- Ensure at least 25GB of free storage
- Restart your Mac
- Install in Safe Mode
- Use macOS Recovery to reinstall macOS (does not erase data)
To enter Recovery:
- Apple Silicon: Hold power button → Options
- Intel: Restart and hold Command + R
✅ Should You Install macOS Sequoia 15.7.4?
Yes.
Even though this update doesn’t add new features, it includes important security patches that protect against:
- Malicious websites
- Remote code execution vulnerabilities
- Privilege escalation flaws
- WebKit-based exploits
If you’re staying on macOS Sequoia instead of upgrading to Tahoe, installing this update is essential to maintain protection.
📌 How To Install macOS Sequoia 15.7.4
- Open System Settings
- Click General
- Select Software Update
- Choose Update Now
Before installing:
- Back up your Mac using Time Machine
- Ensure stable internet connection
- Plug in your MacBook
You can enable automatic updates in System Settings > General > Software Update.
Final Thoughts
macOS Sequoia 15.7.4 may not introduce new features, but it’s a crucial maintenance update that strengthens your Mac’s security and stability.
For most users, installation is quick and trouble-free. If you encounter issues, they’re typically temporary and easily resolved using the troubleshooting steps above.
