How to Upgrade Mac System Software

If you have a PowerPC and you don't have the latest Mac OS (operating system) - version 9.0 in autumn of 1999 - you might want to upgrade for more features, increased speed from more "native" code, and enhanced stability.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Mac OS 9.0

1. Purchase the upgrade software you need. Make sure your computer fits the system requirements for the system software version you're installing. Older Macs can't install the newest systems. (However, older - but perhaps not as old as your own - systems are available for free download on the Apple Web site.)
2. Back up your hard disk before you install the software.
3. Start up the computer from the upgrade CD. Put the CD in the CD-ROM drive and start the computer while holding down the C key on your keyboard.
4. Double-click on the CD icon.
5. Double-click on the installer.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. One decision to make is whether to use the Easy or Custom installation. The Easy Install option makes sure you have all the files you need, so it's the safest. Use the Custom installation if you are certain you won't need a particular feature. (You can install or reinstall specific software components later using the Custom installation option, too.)
7. Reboot the computer when prompted.
8. Make sure all functions work, especially printer and Internet connections.

Tips & Warnings

• Your current settings and so forth shouldn't change after installing new system software.
• The graphical user interface of System 8 and later changes the Finder a bit and adds some new features. It might take a little getting used to.
• If you aren't upgrading from the most recently superceded operating system, you might have to buy the complete system, not an upgrade package.
• Although each new system contains more native PowerPC code for increased speed, each is also bigger and slower than the last. Older Macintoshes will be slowed by the new systems.
• Upgrading your operating system could result in conflicts with older drivers or other software. Check the Read Me files that come with the system software for more information about possible conflicts.

Who Can Help:

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