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sw_vers MacOS command

The sw_vers command in macOS is a useful tool for retrieving various information about the operating system, such as the macOS version, build version, and more. By simply running sw_vers in the Terminal, users can easily access details about the macOS version installed on their system. This command can be particularly handy for troubleshooting purposes or determining compatibility with certain software or hardware requirements. By providing a quick and straightforward way to obtain essential system information, the sw_vers command serves as a valuable resource for macOS users looking to gain insights into their operating system configuration.

sw_vers Syntax:

Terminal window
sw_vers [option]

Options:

OptionDescription
-productNameDisplay the product name
-productVersionDisplay the product version
-buildVersionDisplay the build version

Parameters:

ParameterDescription
NoneNo additional parameters. Just use the command with the desired option.

sw_vers bash Examples:

Display macOS Version Information

Terminal window
sw_vers

Displays basic version information about the macOS operating system.

Display macOS Product Name

Terminal window
sw_vers -productName

Displays the product name of the installed macOS.

Display macOS Build Version

Terminal window
sw_vers -buildVersion

Displays the build version of the macOS.

Display macOS Product Version

Terminal window
sw_vers -productVersion

Displays the product version of the macOS.

Display macOS Product Build Version

Terminal window
sw_vers -productBuildVersion

Displays the product build version of the macOS.

Display macOS OS Version and Build

Terminal window
sw_vers -productVersion -buildVersion

Displays both the OS version and build version of the macOS.

How do I use sw_vers in MacOS?

To use the sw_vers command in MacOS, execute the following command:

Terminal window
sw_vers

What is the purpose of sw_vers in MacOS?

The sw_vers command in MacOS is used to get the operating system version and build information.

Terminal window
sw_vers -productVersion

How can I display the MacOS build version with sw_vers?

To display the specific build version of MacOS using sw_vers, run the following command:

Terminal window
sw_vers -buildVersion

How do I check the MacOS codename with sw_vers?

To check the codename of the MacOS version using sw_vers, use the following command:

Terminal window
sw_vers -productName

How do I get a list of all available options for sw_vers in MacOS?

To display a list of available options and their descriptions for the sw_vers command in MacOS, you can use the following command:

Terminal window
man sw_vers

How can I obtain the Mac OS X operating system product name with sw_vers?

To retrieve the product name of the Mac OS X operating system using sw_vers, execute the following command:

Terminal window
sw_vers -productName

How do I find the Mac OS X operating system version number with sw_vers?

To find the version number of the Mac OS X operating system using sw_vers, run the following command:

Terminal window
sw_vers -productVersion

How can I see the complete operating system information using sw_vers in MacOS?

To view all the information about the operating system, including version, build, and codename, you can use the following command with sw_vers:

Terminal window
sw_vers -productVersion -buildVersion -productName

Applications of the sw_vers command

  • Checking the operating system version and build number
  • Verifying the macOS version for compatibility with certain software or updates.