Member Avatar for ferrous

Now the OSX new system is free to upgrade, but my computer was brought in 2011.can i upgrade??
thanks

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Short answer: it depends on the exact Mac model and the macOS version being targeted. The essential first step is to identify the exact model name/identifier and serial so the machine can be compared against Apple’s compatibility lists. (support.apple.com)

Practical rule of thumb for 2011 machines: most 2011 Macs are supported through macOS High Sierra (10.13), but they are not on the supported lists for Mojave (10.14) or newer releases that require 2012‑or‑later hardware. Use the macOS technical‑spec pages for the specific release to confirm which models are allowed. (support.apple.com)

If a jump to Catalina (10.15) or later is under consideration, be aware Catalina removed support for 32‑bit apps — any legacy 32‑bit programs will stop working after that upgrade. Verify application compatibility before changing the OS. (support.apple.com)

Always prepare a full backup and an installation contingency plan. Apple’s Time Machine workflow is the recommended backup method, and creating a bootable macOS installer is a useful fallback if an online upgrade fails or rollback is needed. Follow Apple’s published instructions for both. (support.apple.com)

Hardware notes and tradeoffs: adding an SSD and more RAM is the most cost‑effective way to extend a 2011 Mac’s usable life. Many 2011 MacBook Pros and Mac minis can accept 16GB via third‑party kits (OWC documented this), while 2011 MacBook Airs were generally limited to 4GB and offer fewer RAM upgrade options — SSD swaps remain the single biggest speed win for those Airs. Consult OWC/EveryMac/iFixit model pages for exact parts and step‑by‑step guides. (eshop.macsales.com)

As observed, it’s model‑dependent; ’s real‑world note about a Mid‑2011 machine running later OS X illustrates that hardware tweaks can help; and and rightly remind that staying on a stable, working OS is often the sensible choice if no features are needed from newer releases.

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Member Avatar for rubberman

The short answer is "it depends". Have you consulted the "gurus" at the Apple Store? Or looked online on the Apple web site? Some things may be upgradeable (depending upon model you have), such as RAM or disc size. So, what are you trying to accomplish. Do bear in mind that Apple considers system of more than 2 or 3 years old to be "obsolete"...

Member Avatar for tompatrick

You can, only if its in compatile device list released by Apple Inc. I recommend you check your hardware from url -

Member Avatar for billythehamster

Apple is normally really good at supporting older systems. I have a Mac that is 5 years old running Mavericks. Although I have upgraded the RAM. If you click the Apple icon on the top left and select 'About This Mac' what does it say.

How much Memory does it say you have and what is the processor. If you click More Info it will tell you the model and year your mac was made. The Mac I am typing this on is a Mac Book Air - Mid 2011 and it runs Mavericks really well.

Edited by billythehamster
Member Avatar for macmad

All notebooks and iMacs built from 2011 and after are upgradable to Mavericks. You will also be able to install Yosemite when it is released. Please, next time give more details.

Member Avatar for kc0arf

Before you attempt the upgrade, you may wish to ask yourself if it is really necessary. I find myself prefering Mountain Lion over Yosemite, and my computers are nice and stable. I find little motivation to upgrade if things are working exactly as I wish them to.

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