Chosen Solution
Hello!! I’m trying to fix/upgrade my parent’s computer. A few years ago it started having issues that I presume are a virus, and they want to replace their computer. But I want to try and fix it before they do. (It runs these “installers” that make it impossible to use, overloads the computer so it becomes very slow) We’ve tried everything to fix it and Apple has no clue, so I thought I’d give it a shot. The best option seems to be to replace the hard drive, which likely contains the virus, and see if that helps. I also want to upgrade the RAM since it’s pretty low and it will help the performance. Does this seem like the best plan of action? If so, what should I replace the RAM and hard drive with to make sure they can use it? Also, should I upgrade anything else? Thanks!! Systems stats: mid-2011 27”, running High Sierra 10.13.62.7 GHz core i54GB 1333MHz DDR3 RAMAMD Radeon 6770M 512MB1TB SATA HDD Update (06/11/2020) @danj looking at the activity monitor, when the computer is loud, lagging, and slow, it looks like this–not my photo but its the same issue.
https://discussions.apple.com/content/at… Update (06/11/2020) after hours of work and calls with Apple, the computer is fixed! it had viruses called “cleanmymac”, “pcvark”, “genieo”, and one other. now for upgrading!
I am pretty sure that a factory reset will do the trick. This erases the entire hard drive, and reinstalls a brand-new copy of macOS. Beware, however, this will remove all files and apps off of the disk. You might want to back up first. Use this guide: https://www.howtogeek.com/186860/how-to-… to boot into macOS Recovery Mode, erase the disk using Disk Utility, and reinstall a copy of macOS. Here is basically what you have to do: Shut down the MacPress the Power button, before you hear the chime press Command (Windows button on a PC keyboard) and R at the same time until you see the Apple logo.You should see a menu that says “Mac OS Utilities”, click on “Disk Utility”, select the internal (top) hard drive, and click Erase. Continue knowing that ALL DATA ON THE DISK WILL BE ERASED. You should have a back up.X out of Disk Utility, and click Reinstall MacOS. Follow the steps and click the new hard drive when asked where to install.
It should start installing. It should take anywhere between 15 minutes to an hour. You may or may not need to be connected to the Internet.
If you get a SMART Disk error, the hard drive is dead and you will need to replace it. Otherwise, this should be completely free. This all should take care of the viruses and give you a fresh start, however if it’s still too slow I will link some new parts for the iMac (plus some extra tools). However you might be able to find a better deal somewhere else. NEW HARD DRIVE: iMac Intel 21.5" and 27" (Mid 2011) SSD Upgrade Kit NEW RAM: iMac Intel 27" EMC 2429 (Mid 2011) Memory Maxxer RAM Upgrade Kit Let me know if you have any questions, or if something doesn’t work. Have a nice day!
Since the person above me already explained the answer to the first question, I will tell you how to install the RAM Power down, unplug and lay the mac face down on a surface that will not damage the displayUsing a Philips head screwdriver remove the cover on the bottom of your macRemove the straps or levers holding the RAM in placeCarefully remove the RAM sticksInsert your new sticks of RAMReturn the straps or levers to proper positionReturn the cover to its proper location and secure it with the screwsReturn the mac to it’s original position and power it on to test it If you want to do a CPU, GPU or drive upgrade I can also help you with them
