macOS Big Sur Installation Failed: 'An Error Occurred While Installing the Selected Updates'

Apple this morning released macOS Big Sur to the public, and since the software went live, it has had extremely long download times that have prevented many from being able to install it.

macos software update issue
Even those who have made progress through the download have run into problems where the software downloading process is suddenly interrupted and must be restarted. Others have reported being able to download the update and then having the installation fail. Apple's site appears to be having some major issues due to the number of people attempting to download the update at once.

In addition to these Big Sur download problems, Apple's developer site is also down at this time, and as a result, some third-party apps are unable to be opened up at this time.

an error occured screenshot

An error occurred while installing the selected updates

It's not clear what's causing the problem. It could be that the macOS Big Sur downloads are failing due to a developer site issue or the developer site could be failing under the strain of macOS Big Sur demand, but it is clear that those hoping to get the new software should hold off until things are more stable.

Apple's System Status page is listing an issue with macOS Software Updates and says that the problem is "currently being investigated."

Related Forum: macOS Big Sur

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Top Rated Comments

ActionJacksonHern Avatar
61 months ago
Who else is seeing this?


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Score: 64 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Rubik Avatar
61 months ago
Guys, please keep posting screenshots of the same error message, it's really interesting and helping.
Score: 59 Votes (Like | Disagree)
jtrenda33 Avatar
61 months ago


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Score: 36 Votes (Like | Disagree)
budfoot Avatar
61 months ago
Apple just DOS'd every single mac for almost 10 minutes. This is the bigger issue. I shouldn't have to check-in to an Apple server every time i want to launch Microsoft Word.

How is this OK?

(no, i didn't have a failed install)
Score: 20 Votes (Like | Disagree)
ghostface147 Avatar
61 months ago
My machine can no longer run any 3rd party programs after a restart after several installation failed notices during download.
Score: 19 Votes (Like | Disagree)
yg17 Avatar
61 months ago
Pathetic.

Netflix, etc, can handle the load when a new movie or TV series is dropped. You'd think Apple would've figured this out by now.
Score: 15 Votes (Like | Disagree)