Update operating system

[cado dalle nuvole]

How do I update my Macbookpro 7.1? I have Snow Leopard. 8 months ago, I tried to install OS 10.13 with no success. I tried on 10.11. Total disappointment. I thought I had to throw this mac away. I install Snow Leopard and it works again. Unfortunately it's an old OS and now more than ever, I need to upgrade.

 

[Fishrrman]

I'd suggest trying "LOW Sierra", OS 10.12 instead.

You may be able to get it here:
Sierra

 

[gilby101]

My understanding (happy to be proved wrong) is that you must:
1. Update to Snow Leopard 10.6.8.
2. Upgrade to Yosemite 10.10 or El Capitan 10.11.
3. Then can upgrade further, up to High Sierra 10.13.6.

10.13.6 is the maximum for MBP 7.1 13" Mid 2010

@Fishrrman has given you the page with the install links you need.

 

[NesteaZen]

I want to refresh a friend's computer. I thought I could just download an image and be done with it.
What does this mean: "To get the correct installer, download from a Mac that is using macOS Sierra 10.12.5 or later, or El Capitan 10.11.6." from @Fishrrman 's link.

I think he is on el capitan. Can i just download 10.15 catalina and run:

sudo /Applications/Install\ macOS\ Catalina.app/Contents/Resources/createinstallmedia --volume /Volumes/MyVolume --applicationpath /Applications/Install\ OS\ X\ Catalina.app

that help page says to include --applicationpath on sierra and before. would that command be correct and would it work?

or: what's the best way for him to upgrade. the app store option of upgrading is grayed out.