Update os x mountain lion without the app store sep 14, 2012 - 6 comments using the command line softwareupdate tool you can update mac os x system software without using the app store.. Edit article how to check for and install updates on a mac computer. in this article: updating app store apps and system software enabling automatic updates updating apps installed without the app store upgrading to a newer os x version installing updates in legacy os x versions community q&a software updates keep your computer and programs secure, fix errors, and provide new features.. Check and install mac os x software updates from terminal home; mac os; iphone; ipad; tips & tricks this is one way to avoid using the mac app store to update a mac if that is necessary for whatever reason. another would be to use combo updates for updating mac system software, or getting other packages from apple via the support downloads page. if you have any other tips or tricks for.