We have an older 28" imac Mac 0SX 10.6.8 2.55i5 4gb ddr3 - would it make sense to drop a new operating system in/on it? If so, what? Free or pay? Thank you!

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We have an older 28" imac Mac 0SX 10.6.8 2.55i5 4gb ddr3 - would it make sense to drop a new operating system in/on it? If so, what? Free or pay? Thank you!

Can we should we upgrade our operating system from OSX 10.6.8; does it involve blanking the computer and installing a totally new system...or...does it override current system? Which one? Any free upgrades available or does one just buy whatever their hardware can handle? Novice questioner looking for merciful advice! iphoto is not working, you tube acts goofy when we go to it. Just dumped most everything off the hard drive into a Seagate backup to see if that helps things get moving again...

iMac, Mac OS X (10.6.8), 2.55 i5 4gb

Posted on Mar 26, 2015 5:43 PM

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Answer 1

John Galt

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Mar 26, 2015 10:09 PM in response to hollandmac

The first step before even contemplating an OS X upgrade is to back up your existing system, which it sounds as though you accomplished. If in doubt read Mac Basics: Time Machine backs up your Mac - Apple Support.
Then, ensure all your essential software will be compatible with Yosemite. Any old, PowerPC-only programs will not work with any Mac operating system newer than what you have. You may need to upgrade existing software or purchase new versions. PowerPC Macs were discontinued a very long time ago.
Then, consider purchasing and installing additional memory. Go to Crucial and download the little app that examines your system and recommends RAM upgrade options. Their prices are good but don't have to buy memory from them - determine what you need and buy it from Crucial or OWC / MacSales. Installation is simple and OWC's website has instructional videos.
Finally, read https://www.apple.com/osx/how-to-upgrade/. It describes everything else. It's not necessary to erase or "blank" your existing system first, though some people find that advantageous since it obviates any concern regarding potentially incompatible software. That's the reason for Step 1 - it's the only practicable way to undo an OS X upgrade.

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