macOS processes › Backups and updates
What is appstoreagent on Mac?
appstoreagent is the App Store's background agent. It checks for app updates, installs them, and manages App Store downloads when the App Store app isn't open.
What it does
It comes from Apple's AppStoreDaemon framework. With automatic updates on, it finds updates, installs them in the background, and checks that the new versions are valid.
Why it gets busy
- Installing several app updates in the background.
- Verifying large apps after they download.
- Checking for updates on a schedule.
Why is appstoreagent using so much CPU?
appstoreagent installs and verifies App Store updates in the background. It settles when the updates finish.
Is it safe to quit?
macOS restarts it. Updates in progress pause and continue later.
How to calm it down
- Let pending updates install, or install them yourself from the App Store's Updates page.
- Turn off automatic updates in App Store › Settings if you prefer to choose when they happen.
In SystemWatch
SystemWatch's History shows when appstoreagent was busy, which usually matches a background round of app updates.
