how to upgrade from sierra to monterey

To upgrade from macOS Sierra (10.12.6) to Monterey, you can follow these general steps. Before proceeding, ensure that your Mac meets the minimum system requirements for macOS Monterey:

Minimum System Requirements for macOS Monterey:

- MacBook (Early 2016 and later)

- MacBook Air (Early 2015 and later)

- MacBook Pro (Early 2015 and later)

- Mac mini (Late 2014 and later)

- iMac (Late 2015 and later)

- iMac Pro (2017 and later)

- Mac Pro (Late 2013 and later)

Steps to Upgrade:

1. Check Compatibility:

- Confirm that your Mac is compatible with macOS Monterey based on the system requirements listed above.

2. Backup Your Data:

- Before any major update, it's crucial to back up your important data. Use Time Machine or any other backup method you prefer.

3. Connect to a Stable Network:

- Ensure that your Mac is connected to a stable internet connection, as the upgrade involves downloading the macOS Monterey installer.

4. Check for Software Updates:

- Go to the Apple menu (Apple logo in the top-left corner) and choose "App Store."

- In the App Store, go to the "Updates" tab and check for any available macOS updates. If Monterey is listed, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install it.

5. Download macOS Monterey from the App Store:

- If you don't see macOS Monterey listed in the Updates tab, you can search for it in the App Store. Open the App Store and search for "Monterey." Click on the "View" button to access the macOS Monterey page, and then click "Get" to download it.

6. Install macOS Monterey:

- Once the download is complete, the installer will open automatically. Follow the on-screen instructions to install macOS Monterey. This process may take some time, and your Mac may restart during the installation.

7. Complete Setup:

- After the installation is complete, you'll go through the initial setup process for macOS Monterey. This includes signing in with your Apple ID, setting up iCloud, and configuring other preferences.

8. Restore Data from Backup:

- If you used Time Machine or another backup method, you can now restore your data to your Mac.

Remember that macOS Monterey may introduce new features and changes, so it's a good idea to review the release notes and familiarize yourself with any updates to the system.

Please note that the specific steps may vary slightly depending on the version of the App Store and the macOS installer available at the time of your upgrade. Always check for the latest recommendations from Apple.

We can neither see nor touch your computer in this end-user setting so must rely on you for all details. Apple bases OS compatibility on SUB-MODEL. You sub-model name from "About the Mac would allow us to give you a specific answer instead of a general one. In Sierra, the sub-model is easily found in "About this Mac..."

also include the screen size but NOT the serial number.

The fact that you say you have a 2.5ghz i5 processor suggests to me your have no newer than a 21.5-inch Mid 2011 iMac . If so, it cannot run any higher OS than macOS 10.13 High Sierra.

Try this site: https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/how-to-download-macos-monterey/