# Installing Software Updates

Periodically, Parallels provides free software updates to improve Parallels Desktop.

By default, Parallels Desktop is configured to automatically check for and download available software updates once a week. When an update is available, Parallels Desktop prompts you to install it. Simply follow the onscreen instructions.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note**: Parallels Desktop for App Store receives updates via the Mac App Store update process. For more information on the differences between the Standard and App Store editions, follow this [link](https://kb.parallels.com/123796).
{% endhint %}

### Adjust Software Update Settings

* Click the Parallels icon in the menu bar and choose **Preferences**. Then click **General**.
* Right-click the Parallels Desktop icon in the Dock and choose **Preferences**. Then click **General**.

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* To choose whether you want Parallels Desktop to download updates automatically, select or deselect **Download updates automatically**.

If you choose not to download updates automatically, Parallels Desktop notifies you when an update is available and asks whether you want to download it.