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Which version of Mac OS X do I have?

When downloading and installing screensavers and other software programs, it is often useful to know which version of the Mac OS X (or macOS) operating system is installed onto your computer. Sometimes, software applications depend on a specific version of an operating system, and consequently may not function on newer or older versions.

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Finding your version number

To determine your current version of Mac OS X, simply follow these few steps:

  1. Click on the Apple icon at the top left of your screen.
  2. Select "About This Mac".
  3. A new window will appear with some basic information about your Mac. At the top, just below the "Mac OS X" header, you should find your version of the Mac OS X operating system. Example: Mac OS X 10.6.8.
  4. For more detailed information, click "More Info", scroll down and select "Software".

If you prefer to use the Terminal, the following command will return your version number:

  • sw_vers -productVersion

Codenames

All versions of Mac OS X also have a codename, such as "Snow Leopard," "Mountain Lion" or "Yosemite". Below is a list of codenames and their corresponding version number:

  • Version 10.12: Sierra (OS X was renamed to macOS)
  • Version 10.11: El Capitan
  • Version 10.10: Yosemite
  • Version 10.9: Mavericks
  • Version 10.8: Mountain Lion
  • Version 10.7: Lion
  • Version 10.6: Snow Leopard
  • Version 10.5: Leopard
  • Version 10.4: Tiger
  • Version 10.3: Panther
  • Version 10.2: Jaguar
  • Version 10.1: Puma
  • Version 10.0: Cheetah

Hopefully, knowing your version number and its codename will help you determine which software programs, including screensavers, are likely to work on your computer.

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