How to prepare computer for upgrade to ML

[johngrussell]

Hi , I did a search but did not find anything. I'm curious to know if there is a procedure to prepare computer, in this case a 2008 MBP with latest v. of Lion for the upgrade to ML. I'm probably not going to do a fresh install but use the option to transfer from existing setup. I have Disk Warrior and Onyx. Would you suggest using them to purge old caches, info etc. prior to updating? I'm trying to eliminate and reduce chance of a bad upgrade. So, is there a foolproof preparation that makes the upgrade easier etc.
Thank you in advance.
John

 

[50548]

Hi , I did a search but did not find anything. I'm curious to know if there is a procedure to prepare computer, in this case a 2008 MBP with latest v. of Lion for the upgrade to ML. I'm probably not going to do a fresh install but use the option to transfer from existing setup. I have Disk Warrior and Onyx. Would you suggest using them to purge old caches, info etc. prior to updating? I'm trying to eliminate and reduce chance of a bad upgrade. So, is there a foolproof preparation that makes the upgrade easier etc.
Thank you in advance.
John

Yes, use Onyx to do some ordinary housekeeping (the usual automated tasks, including repair permissions), unplug any non-essential third-party devices, delete whatever crap you may easily identify (unused apps etc.) and then proceed to the upgrade.

Right after the upgrade, repair permissions again and you should be set to go.

A "clean install" is not necessary unless you want to use it as an excuse to delete many things and start from the scratch.

Also, bear in mind that Onyx has a specific version for ML once you conclude the upgrade...the same applies to other utilities as well.

 

[robgendreau]

Nothing is foolproof (as reading this forum proves) so make a current backup and make sure the backup actually works, or at least has all your stuff.

Update applications before upgrading ML. ML moved a few to an incompatible folder and it would have been easier to upgrade the application BEFORE installing ML (Parallels, I talking 'bout you).

Make a bootable USB stick before you run the ML installer so you have it just in case.

I think Onyx or Cocktail or whatever will let you purge caches, but you can do that after the installation as well. Apple's installer just installs over your existing setup, no need to migrate anything. It works great for most all of us.