2

I have an ancient (c. 2007?) Mac Pro running OSX 10.7.5 at work. It's so old, Software Update no longer allows me to update to a newer operating system. I use a lot of software provided by MacPorts, and I'm finding I'm having issues that may be related to not being able to update. I'm no longer able to update certain software, either. I use it to ssh to when I'm not in my office, so it's open to the network (though I expect that it is protected to some degree by my institution's network).

Unfortunately, I lack the funds to purchase a newer model!

I know running an outdated computer has problems:

  • Software vulnerabilities don't get patched, exposing me to hacks (eep!)
  • Possible instabilities with 3rd party software that might install on my system but not work with my system.
  • The most current versions of some software packages won't install
  • I miss out on some of the new features of the newer OSs (e.g. Messages)

I'm primarily concerned with the first problem listed.

Question

What are some other risks, and how can I evaluate and/or navigate them? Is it really, really bad for me to run it like this--so bad that it might be advisable to install and use Linux instead (as described here)?

Improve this question

2 Answers 2

Reset to default
2

If you have the 2007 Pro 1.1, 10.7.5 is the end of the line for you. But depending what you need to do, it's not all bad. I have a 2010 pro and run only Snow Leo, 10.6.8 most of the time. The only thing you can do is monitor what apps no longer function, and save up for an upgrade. $600 or so to jump to 2010 pro.

Improve this answer
1

Running an older OS opens yourself up to attacks, as security patches are no longer issued. As those vulnerabilities are discovered, they can be exploited. You could try to safeguard against this by using 3rd-party AV software, but it cannot be guaranteed as it is up to the vendor to continue supporting older OS's. There is no telling how bad these exploits may be, it would depend on a variety of environmental factors combined with your unique personal activities which would increase the likelihood of stumbling across one of those vulnerabilities.



TL;DR: There is a risk, no matter how you slice it. We cannot determine for you how major that risk is beyond informing you that running old software is bad practice. Either determine a way to get to a newer machine, or install an OS which has regular security updates still issued for it.

Improve this answer

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged .