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Upgrading a late 2009 iMac

I need help in updating the operating system on my iMac. I have a late 2009 iMac which is currently running version 10.9.5. I would like to bring it up to date but do not know how I should do that!


Can I just go to the App Store and download MacOS Catalina and install it or do I have to install some or all of the missing updates between Mountain Lion and Mojave before installing Catalina?


Once I install the new operating system I will have to update all the iMac software (Pages. iPhoto, Mail etc.). Can I do that by just downloading and installing the latest software updates for each? Thanks.


Posted on Oct 26, 2019 11:50 AM

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4 replies

Oct 26, 2019 12:07 PM in response to shanna95

The latest compatible version of macOS is 10.13 High Sierra which you can get from the App Store or by using this link:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/macos-high-sierra/id1246284741?ls=1&mt=12


Apple's guide for upgrading to High Sierra:

https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT208969


Optional install method by creating a bootable macOS USB installer:

https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201372


iPhoto will be replaced by Photos by the new OS. Mail is part of macOS and will be upgraded automatically. Apps such as Pages, Numbers, KeyNote, etc. can be installed from the App Store and I believe they are now free.


Before upgrading macOS make sure to have good verified working backups in case something goes wrong with the upgrade and the computer cannot boot or your data becomes inaccessible. You should always have backups, but they are even more important when performing such a huge system change. Don't be surprised if you find out your iMac's hard drive is failing during the upgrade or that your system needs more memory to run well.


To check the health of the hard drive run DriveDX. If the drive is shown as healthy, you can post the report here using the "Additional Text" icon which looks like a piece of paper.

Upgrading a late 2009 iMac

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