Turning on my iMac for the first time - internet limitations

[Pintail]

Okay first you have to promise not to laugh.

I'll be getting my first iMac soon from the online store (woohoo!). With every other PC I've had, the first time powering up Windows requires about 3-4 hours of internet back and forth in order to install/update/patch Windows and all the ridiculous drivers, plus installing the needed add ons.

I live in a remote area and my only internet access is via satellite. Max is 1mps and I have a 250 MB daily cap.

See? I asked you not to laugh...

In the past I have had to bring my towers to work for the ethernet connection in order to avoid the throttling and FAP nightmare at home.

So how about a Mac? The first time I turn this puppy on is it going to go looking for remote installs and yadda yadda? I won't bring it straight home if so.

Thanks for the help guys, helps me plan what I need to do.

 

[Consultant]

A Mac is not a PC. You are not required to install additional software when you turn on a Mac. Typically you'll be using your Mac in a few minutes.

It's good idea to do the updates though. So if you can download them on a faster line, then do it.

 

[Jazwire]

If you are getting the newest Imac the ones that came out yesterday.
There most likely wont be any updates at this point.

Maybe the font update that came out but that was tiny.

( 250mb cap, wow what would I do after 10am. lol )

 

[milbournosphere]

You might have already, but have you considered a laptop instead, given your internet connection situation? It might make your life a little easier as well, given your remote location...that said, enjoy your mac, and enjoy not having to endure a torrent of crapware upon your first boot.

 

[Pintail]

Indeed - I have a Dell Laptop (which will turn into a MBP when it's natural life expires), but we still have a "home" computer that my family uses and that I do some graphic / movie work on.

I have been patching up the home-build PC for 10 years so I am super happy to finally be bringing a Mac into my home. Invested in the BTO i7 with all the bells and whistles and my hubby couldn't be happier!

I had to reinstall my video drivers 4 times last week.

Love this forum!

 

[plinden]

When it comes to OS updates, you can download the combo installer at work (is it unethical to use one's work internet for this? ... some would probably say it is. I did it before I got my 24Mb/s internet at home), copy to a thumb drive, and just install from the downloaded disk image.

For instance the 10.6.7 update is at http://support.apple.com/kb/DL1361. Just using that as an example - that update won't work on the new iMacs.

 

[Pintail]

When it comes to OS updates, you can download the combo installer at work (is it unethical to use one's work internet for this? ... some would probably say it is. I did it before I got my 24Mb/s internet at home), copy to a thumb drive, and just install from the downloaded disk image.

I'm the boss, so I gave me permission

As a business owner however, I can appreciate the sentiment. I was pleased to oblige an employee who had a similar issue but was sure glad they asked so my network IT guy knew what was going on!