How to update OSX applications (not from Mac Apple store)

[dcaccount]

Hello,
I have a doubt, coming from the Windows world.

How shall I cleanly update an application on my High Sierra Mac (not bought from the Mac Apple store)?

Can I install it "over" the old one or shall I first uninstall the old one and then to install the updated one?

Please clarify,

thanks a lot,
daniele

 

[MacDawg]

Some apps will check for updates and do the update automagically for you
But there is no problem over writing an app with a newer version, or installing a newer version and deleting the old

 

[dcaccount]

Thanks for replying.

So if the app does not magically self update, I can simply install the newer one over the older, is that right? Will I not create a mess on the registry...?

daniele

 

[CoastalOR]

OP:
Welcome to Macs.
Here is a link that has information on installing Apps on a Macintosh that I found using Google. I hope it helps.
https://www.howtogeek.com/177619/how-to-install-applications-on-a-mac-everything-you-need-to-know/

BTW: Macs do not have a registry like Windows.