Recently Acquired An Apple Imac Computer

[Quenched]

I was recently given an Apple Imac Computer, but it says I can't upgrade any software on it, or its operating software?

Apart from that it works fine and is still like new in appearance, but how do I upgrade the OP if its saying the Imac is basically too old. 

I think it was first bought brand new about 10 years ago.

 

I could just struggle on with how it is, but I'm normally only familiar with Microsoft Windows. But Apple seems a new ball game. 

Any help will be appreciated. 

[Buenchico]

You can check the exact model, and the most recent OS available for it, here:
https://support.apple.com/en-gb/108054

 

[Tuvok]

Go to the Apple Menu

Select about this mac.

That will tell you what model you have.

Then still in the Apple menu, chose system settings - software update.   There will be a point that the mac is no longer supported, but it will still work until any other software you use on it is no longer supported.

 

 

[Ludocruz]

I have three iPads from 2005-10, none of which can be updated to any usable IOS operating system. "Inbuilt obsolescence" at its most devious. 🍏👹

[Buenchico]

>>> "Inbuilt obsolescence" at its most devious

Yes, indeed.  It seems that Apple only supports each OS for three years!
https://setapp.com/how-to/full-list-of-all-macos-versions

[barry1010]

If it's truly unusable as it is you could install Linux as it's operating system, create a dual boot.

That's a whole new learning curve though

[Fitzer]

Technically obsolete but doesn't mean it won't work, I have a mid-2010 Mac Mini running High Sierra and it still works and runs the versions of software it supports so it rather depends on what you want it to do.

[barry1010]

My iPad is technically obsolete but still works as it should. I don't worry about it