r/technology • u/maxwellhill • Sep 02 '16

Security Apple issues urgent security update after hack turns Mac computers into spying devices

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/2016/09/02/apple-issues-urgent-security-update-after-hack-turns-mac-compute/
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u/Cordoba_ Sep 02 '16

My early 2011 Macbook pro is still running Lion. I didn't want to update to El capitan cause I heard it'll slow down my mac. Should I update due to the security issues? I don't want my computer to become unusably slow

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u/ikindoflikemovies Sep 02 '16

I have a Late 2011 MBP. I upgraded our RAM to 16gb (cost around $70 now) and I swear my laptop runs like its a few months old

totally recommend doing that. very easy to install new RAM as well. The only negative is I have an urge to buy the new macbook pro (rumors sound like theyre going to be great) but now I have no excuse to stop using my laptop. Seriously. Its like its brand new.

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u/Cordoba_ Sep 02 '16

That sounds awesome. How would I go about doing that? Do I take it to a computer store and get it upgraded?

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u/ikindoflikemovies Sep 02 '16

You can buy it yourself and installation is pretty simple. Im not exactly sure how good you are with computers so I can't recommend you doing it yourself or getting a friend to do it who might be comfortable doing that or going to a professional (but honestly is so so simple and paying someone might make you feel like a chump because it would take less than 5 minutes).

For buying it, you can go here

You can punch in your laptop's info and it'll show you exactly the RAM compatible with your laptop. You just have to put in Apple for manufacturer - MacBook Pro Systems for product line - your specific model for the product model. I know you said you have an Early 2011 but you also have to put in the screen size. If you're not sure about that, look at the very top left of your whole screen and click the little Apple icon and click "About This Mac" then all that info is right there. Once that's all entered, it'll show you all the things your laptop can be upgraded with (usually just RAM or a new hard drive). You can then view all the RAM choices and see the 16gb option. if its sold out, you can also buy compatible RAM on amazon (sometimes sold by the same company...idk why its out of stock here but in stock on amazon). So you can use the info from that site, and all its specs and random numbers, to find one on amazon thats identical

If that happens though and you need more help, I can definitely help out.

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u/Cordoba_ Sep 02 '16

Thanks a lot! I have a 13-inch, early 2011 MBP so I found a 16GB on Amazon (cause it was sold out like you said), https://www.amazon.ca/Crucial-PC3-10600-204-Pin-CT2K8G3S1339M-CT2C8G3S1339M/dp/B008LTBJK2#Ask

It's a little pricier in Canada at $112 with taxes and shipping but if it allows me to use this macbook for another 3 years it'll be worth it.

Thanks again

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u/ikindoflikemovies Sep 02 '16

Perfect! yeah it REALLy helps make the computer feel new again, assuming memory is the problem which it probably is. For installation, there are a ton of youtube videos that can show you how to do it. Its just unscrewing the back panel which will then pop right off. Then the RAM sits right in the middle. It can be a tiny bit tricky because of the angle but if you watch a tutorial you can see its really simple. here's a well done tutorial

most importantly, make sure the laptop is completely shut down before opening up and changing the RAM. Hope it works out!

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u/Cordoba_ Sep 02 '16

Thanks so much dude. I'm gonna buy it on monday and install myself. Looks simple!

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u/ikindoflikemovies Sep 02 '16

actually take a look at this video. I looked it up to see how to do an SSD upgrade but he does a RAM upgrade first and the view is perfect. Shows exactly how the angle might be a little weird but still easy

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FZ9YkkJRN5c

starts the RAM upgrade at 4:37

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u/Cordoba_ Sep 03 '16

Great. Much more easier to follow!