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How can I update my operating system? I have an older desktop that has been updated.

I have El Capitan now but Office 365 requires 10.13.0 or later. My IMAC desktop is a Mid 2010 that has been updated with memory and processor. When I try to download Catalina it doesn't appear to be on the compatible list. Is there something in between that I can do to have my new software work?


Posted on Jan 4, 2020 8:52 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jan 4, 2020 9:08 AM

A 2010 iMac will run up to MacOS 10.13 "High Sierra."


You can get High Sierra using the link near the bottom of this Apple support article::


How to upgrade to macOS High Sierra - Apple Support


You model typically shipped with 4GB RAM. If you have not upgraded RAM before, High Sierra will run on that amount but will work better if you bump it to 8GB. It is an easy at-home job (ten minutes) and RAM is relatively cheap right now. This kit gets you to a total of 8GB RAM:


https://eshop.macsales.com/item/OWC/1333DDR3S04S/


This kit gets you to 12GB and is the one I used in my 2010 iMac without issue:


https://eshop.macsales.com/item/OWC/1333DDR3S08S/


Assuming your iMac is as-shipped, you have four RAM slots. Two are occupied and two are empty. Simply install the new RAM in the empty slots. Might want to blow any dust out of the slots first--ten years is a long time.


RAM Install instructions here:


Install memory in an iMac - Apple Support


2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jan 4, 2020 9:08 AM in response to cathey128

A 2010 iMac will run up to MacOS 10.13 "High Sierra."


You can get High Sierra using the link near the bottom of this Apple support article::


How to upgrade to macOS High Sierra - Apple Support


You model typically shipped with 4GB RAM. If you have not upgraded RAM before, High Sierra will run on that amount but will work better if you bump it to 8GB. It is an easy at-home job (ten minutes) and RAM is relatively cheap right now. This kit gets you to a total of 8GB RAM:


https://eshop.macsales.com/item/OWC/1333DDR3S04S/


This kit gets you to 12GB and is the one I used in my 2010 iMac without issue:


https://eshop.macsales.com/item/OWC/1333DDR3S08S/


Assuming your iMac is as-shipped, you have four RAM slots. Two are occupied and two are empty. Simply install the new RAM in the empty slots. Might want to blow any dust out of the slots first--ten years is a long time.


RAM Install instructions here:


Install memory in an iMac - Apple Support


How can I update my operating system? I have an older desktop that has been updated.

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