Download old Mac OS X installer packages.

Question

Created Feb ’17

Replies 5

Boosts 0

Views 8.8k

Participants 5

Hello,

because I have to test my OS X app with an older Mac OS X version (to make sure it is still compatible) I would like to setup a VM with an older OS X Version (El Capitan or Yosemite) using Parallels desktop. In order to create the VM a need the installer package.

I can see the older OS X versions in the Mac app store app in the list of my purchased apps, but when I click the downlaod button a message appears: "This version of OS X 10.10 cannot be installed on this computer" ...

As far as I can see the Apple Developer Downloads at https://developer.apple.com/download/more/ doesn't include installer packages - just updates.

Any ideas how to get an older OS X installer package ... for developing and testing?

Best regards

Frank

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Answer 1

KMT OP

Feb ’17

As you noted, the only place to find Yosemite is via the MAS 'Purchased' tab, if you previously 'bought' it.

About that warning tho...the MAS assumes you're trying to download and install, not just download. Without a computer properly configured to follow thru with an actual install as part of that process, you're stuck.

I'd suggest this is a parallels install issue and you may want to use their support.

Good luck.

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Answer 2

megatron1000 OP

Oct ’17

I'm stuck in the same situation. I'm unable to find anywhere where I can get a legitimate copy of El Capitan or Sierra to run in Fusion. The Mac App Store refuses to vend me these old copies on my Mac. I can't believe Apple have chosen not to provide these via Apple Developer resources; these are an essential thing for macOS developers. I'm going to end up having to get these via a torrent at this rate.

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Answer 3

Calvir OP

Apr ’19

I'm in this position now too, and it seems even worse with Mojave.

I'm pretty sure I remember downloading installer images from Apple Developer in the past, but can't find them anywhere now.

Seems like rather a large oversight (or attack of indifference) by Apple here.

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Answer 4

KMT OP

Apr ’19

>pretty sure I remember

I'm pretty sure those were/are always dot point releases, never full.

>oversight (or attack of indifference)

Or smart business by reducing support and compatibility calls for outdated software that would only succeed in putting tamped down security holes back in play.

I prefer that approach over your indifference to a modern and secure macOS. You can thank Apple for the security you enjoy today because of their insight and pursuit of diligence.

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Answer 5

aPenguin OP

Mar ’22

macOS Sierra, OS X El Capitan and OS X Yosemite are available for download as DMG files here:

https://support.apple.com/HT211683

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