How to upgrade from OS X El Capitan 10.11.6 to Big Sur?

I haven't used my desktop in ages and there are no software updates available.


When i try to download Big Sur directly it says "This version of macOS 11.2.3 cannot be installed on this computer."

In the software description it says i must have version 10.11.5 or later, which i do!


I tried to do a Chat support with Mac but it says my product doesn't qualify for special tech support or something...


Please can someone help me? Thank you very much!!

iMac 27″, OS X 10.11

Posted on Apr 6, 2021 02:50 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Apr 6, 2021 05:35 AM

Kittycatcruzer wrote:

I haven't used my desktop in ages and there are no software updates available.

When i try to download Big Sur directly it says "This version of macOS 11.2.3 cannot be installed on this computer."
In the software description it says i must have version 10.11.5 or later, which i do!

I tried to do a Chat support with Mac but it says my product doesn't qualify for special tech support or something...

Please can someone help me? Thank you very much!!


?


macOS Big Sur w/tech specs

https://support.apple.com/en-ca/HT201475



Tech specs—Big Sur

• MacBook (2015 or later)

• MacBook Air (2013 or later)

• MacBook Pro (Late 2013 or later)

• Mac mini (2014 or later)

• iMac (2014 or later)

• iMac Pro (2017 or later)

• Mac Pro (2013 or later)



How to update the software on your Mac - Apple Support


Keep your Mac up to date - Apple Support



If you do not qualify for Big Sur— older macOS installer backups on this server:

https://support.apple.com/en-gb/HT211683 verify you are using the Safari browser to download/initiate the macOS links:


2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Apr 6, 2021 05:35 AM in response to Kittycatcruzer

Kittycatcruzer wrote:

I haven't used my desktop in ages and there are no software updates available.

When i try to download Big Sur directly it says "This version of macOS 11.2.3 cannot be installed on this computer."
In the software description it says i must have version 10.11.5 or later, which i do!

I tried to do a Chat support with Mac but it says my product doesn't qualify for special tech support or something...

Please can someone help me? Thank you very much!!


?


macOS Big Sur w/tech specs

https://support.apple.com/en-ca/HT201475



Tech specs—Big Sur

• MacBook (2015 or later)

• MacBook Air (2013 or later)

• MacBook Pro (Late 2013 or later)

• Mac mini (2014 or later)

• iMac (2014 or later)

• iMac Pro (2017 or later)

• Mac Pro (2013 or later)



How to update the software on your Mac - Apple Support


Keep your Mac up to date - Apple Support



If you do not qualify for Big Sur— older macOS installer backups on this server:

https://support.apple.com/en-gb/HT211683 verify you are using the Safari browser to download/initiate the macOS links:


This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

How to upgrade from OS X El Capitan 10.11.6 to Big Sur?

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.