The company offers workaround for those experiencing installation trouble

Dec 22, 2008 09:29 GMT  ·  By

A technote dated December 18, 2008 (TS2383), posted by Apple details a workaround for an issue that might occur on Macs getting the Mac OS X 10.5.6 Software Update. Apparently, some users are faced with freezing problems while applying the latest maintenance and security update to Leopard.

The knowledge base article details the symptoms as such (most likely based on users' complaints):

When attempting to update software using Software Update in Mac OS X 10.5, the update process may stop responding while "Configuring installation" is visible in the update window. This can occur if Software Update attempts to install an update that was only partially downloaded.

Apparently, the issues run through Mac OS X versions 10.5 to 10.5.5. A resolution is to quit (or if necessary, Force Quit) Software Update, according to the company behind the Mac OS. Apple also notes that “if the issue occurs while installing an update after log out (such as an update that requires a restart),” users must shut down the computer by holding down the power button.

As soon as the Mac shuts down, they must power it back on, log on to their accounts, and start the workaround by clicking the Finder icon in the Dock. From there on, the following steps are given:

- From the Go menu choose "Go to Folder;" - Type: /Library/Updates; - Click Go. The /Library/Updates folder opens; - Select all contents of this folder and move them to the Trash; - Once the above steps are complete, use Software Update again to re-download and install the update.

So, basically, users must remove the partially downloaded update and try again. Those who haven't attempted to apply the update yet can avoid this issue by downloading and installing the Mac OS X 10.5.6 standalone installer package, or the Mac OS X 10.5.6 Combo Update. You can grab the proper installer for your version of the Mac OS using the links below.

Download Mac OS X 10.5.6 Client (Free)

Download Mac OS X 10.5.6 Combo Update – Client (Free)