Running Windows alongside OS High Sierra - Mid 2011 IMAC upgraded

[MacMan2023]

Hi, can anyone advise on the ease/difficulty of installing Windows to run alongside macOS?

The current specifications of my Mid2011 Imac are a 1TB SSD, 12GB RAM, 2.7GHz i5 processor, and an AMD Radeon HD 6770M with 512MB memory. Additionally, there are three installed WiFi dongles for improved WiFi connectivity.

1. If achievable can you advise the simple steps.

2. Are there any cons to doing this?

3. What is the cheapest way to get Windows, Excel, Word, etc. in the UK market?

4. Any better suggestions?

thanks all

 

[MacsBug]

There are 2 options for this. You can install Windows on a partition using Boot Camp which is in your Utilities folder. You wil need a retail version of either Windows 7, 8 or 10. With this option you have to reboot to use Windows.

Or, you can use a virtualization program like Parallels or Fusion. You would need an older copy of these that run in High Sierra. You will still need a licensable copy of Windows for this. In virtualization you can use Windows without having to reboot.

 

[deliriouscat]

You certainly can run Windows alongside macOS on your iMac, and you have two good options for doing so.

1. Use Boot Camp, a utility that comes with your Mac, to install Windows on a separate partition of your hard drive. This is a pretty straightforward process, but it means you'll need to reboot your Mac whenever you want to switch between operating systems.
2. Use a virtualization program like Parallels or VMware Fusion. These let you run Windows as an application within macOS, so you can switch between the two without rebooting. Just make sure to get a version that's compatible with High Sierra.

In terms of the cheapest way to get Windows and Microsoft Office in the UK, keep an eye out for deals online. Websites like eBay often have discounted software, but always make sure you're buying from a reputable seller to avoid getting counterfeit software.