Q: I am helping a very poor person:He has a MacBook (2006)
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Aug 29, 2016 12:36 PMby K Shaffer,HelpfulIF the user has access to the internet, an ISP account, or frequents a business with
free internet access, they could go online. The wireless setting in the OS X can be
configured; the MacBook setting can also be used with wired internet.
It is possible to set up Locations, so if he visits an internet cafe, a separate location
can be created for that business wi-fi. They can change their public wi-fi password
daily, so to teach him how to set up and use these features is important.
{Public libraries have wi-fi, so before he goes there (or she, etc) you have to show
the person how to set up and use the wireless Airport software. You may have to
test the MacBook to see if that works. Also check to see if the Ethernet aspect of
connecting to a internet router works. This would be the fastest way to get any
available software; since wi-fi is a low connection bandwidth vs. wired ethernet.}
My 2006 MacBook 13-inch CoreDuo 1.83GHz is a first build model; with OS X 10.5.8
it still does OK and goes online. The browser situation is such that there aren't very
many available that will be secure. Safari, the native browser, has no update. My old
MacBook has an outdated Firefox, an older SeaMonkey, and Safari browsers. It is
older than your friends, because my model only upgrades to Snow Leopard 10.6.8.
The computer your friend has can use a newer Firefox browser; for awhile anyway.
You can • download Mozilla Firefox ESR here. This is the last version supported in
Macs running OS X 10.6.8 - 10.7.5 - 10.8.5; several links to downloads, on that page.
{Link in page, is US English Download; a link to direct download from there: Download}
You may try to find an old copy of the 'Missing Manual: OS X Lion' or one for Snow Leopard
since these should be inexpensive at second-hand thrift stores for under $2. These books
are helpful to those who read offline; the Missing Manual series has some great titles/topics.
Seems to me the last copy of MM: OS X Lion 10.7 cost me under $1. & was in fine shape.
So I gave it to someone who said they had a Mac with Lion, and no manual.
Most of my computers are more than 10 years old. My most recent one about broke the bank
was the first 'new' one in 11 years. I've been given ones that didn't work; I fixed two to use:
My early 2006 MacBook was given to me a few years ago; I repaired it. Plus a G4 Mini 1.5GHz.
So to have reference books to help the person understand his device, can be a good idea.
Note that if the battery is old, swollen, or does not charge, it should be replaced. Also note
the Mac will run (processor) much slower if there is no battery, and only run on AC adapter.
Older computers with rotational drives can need a replacement drive, as they wear out.
Good luck!
