Back to the “Used Mac Buying Guide“
Avoid the potential issues below by buying from these high quality sources:
- Best Pricing For Used iMac
- Best Pricing For Used MacBook Pro
- Best Pricing For Used MacBook
- Best Pricing For Used Mac Mini
- Best Pricing For Used Mac Pro
Acquiring a used Mac can be a savvy investment, particularly once you have successfully factory reset it and performed all necessary updates. The next step in making your Mac ready for use is installing essential software. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
1. Understand Your Needs
First, identify your needs. The essential software for you depends on what you intend to do with your Mac. Are you using it for work, school, creative projects, or general use? Your answer will determine the software you need to install.
2. Installing a Web Browser
While Safari comes preinstalled on every Mac, you might prefer using a different web browser such as Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox. To install, visit the browser’s official website, download the installer, and follow the prompts.
3. Setting Up Email
Apple’s Mail app comes preinstalled, but if you prefer a different email client like Microsoft Outlook or Spark, you can download them from the Mac App Store or the software’s official website.
4. Productivity Tools
If your work involves document editing, spreadsheets, or presentations, consider installing a productivity suite. Apple’s iWork suite (Pages, Numbers, Keynote) is free and integrates well with macOS, but Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) or Google Workspace might be required for compatibility with work or school.
5. Cloud Storage
Consider installing a cloud storage service such as Dropbox, Google Drive, or Microsoft OneDrive. While iCloud Drive is integrated into macOS, other services might be preferable due to cost, storage space, or compatibility with other devices or users.
6. Antivirus Software
While Macs are generally secure, installing an antivirus can add an extra layer of protection. Consider options such as Bitdefender, Norton, or Avast.
7. Media Players
While Apple’s iTunes and QuickTime player handle most media files, you might want a more versatile player like VLC, which can play virtually any file format.
8. Photo and Video Editing Software
If you plan to edit photos or videos, consider software like Adobe Photoshop or Final Cut Pro. For basic editing, Mac’s built-in Photos and iMovie apps might suffice.
9. Other Essential Software
Other essential apps might include a password manager (such as 1Password or LastPass), a PDF reader (like Adobe Reader or Foxit Reader), and a backup tool (like Time Machine, which is built into macOS, or a third-party tool like Carbon Copy Cloner).
Conclusion
Installing essential software on your used Mac tailors it to your specific needs, making it more than just a standard computing device. Always ensure that you’re downloading from trusted sources like the software manufacturer’s official website or the Mac App Store to avoid any potential security risks. Happy computing with your personalized Mac!
