Quick-fire questions

How to downgrade the firmware in my Mac?

> If it’s an Apple silicon model, you need another Mac and Apple Configurator 2 software together with a special IPSW image of its software. Intel Macs with a T2 chip can also be downgraded using a similar procedure, but those without a T2 chip simply can’t.

How to replace the hard drive in my iMac?

> Unless you’re skilled at Mac surgery, you’ll want to avoid this, and in any case shouldn’t install a new hard drive. Your cheapest option is to buy an external SSD, install macOS on that, and start your iMac up from there. Internal SSD replacements are less flexible and can make it impossible to upgrade your Mac’s firmware.

How many displays can an M2 MacBook Air support?

> Like the M1 chip, the basic M2 supports only one external display. For more, you’ll need an M2 Pro when available, or you could buy a dock supporting DisplayLink and install its driver to run two or more, if they’re compatible.

Should I shut my iMac down each evening?

> If its power is protected by an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), it’s better to leave it on for longer periods, even weeks. This most affected hard drives, but electronics also last longer when left running, provided its mains supply is properly protected.