Prepare your software
Most of your current software will run on Mac OS X, according to Apple. To build compatibility for the new OS, Apple has engineered three modes of software that will run in OS X: Classic, Carbon, and Cocoa.

Classic software is older software that hasn't been optimized to run on OS X. Most of your current software probably falls into this camp. Under OS X, this software runs in what's called Classic mode, which lacks some OS X features, such as protected memory. In Classic mode, your software won't run as fast as software native to OS X. And although most Classic software runs under OS X, some does not, such as Virtual PC. Incompatible Classic apps can crash the Classic environment and must be upgraded when Carbon versions become available.

Software that has been altered to run natively in both OS X and OS 9 is called Carbon software. This software runs better than Classic software because it doesn't require the Classic environment, and it can use OS X features such as protected memory. If a Carbon version of your apps is available, you should probably upgrade. Some of your software, such as Internet Explorer for the Mac, may already be Carbonized.

Cocoa software was written specifically for and runs only on OS X. There's not much of this around yet, but look for new apps coming out in summer 2001, and watch Apple's Built for Mac OS X list.

Finally, you'll need to examine your current Mac OS system software. Follow these easy instructions to find out if your software can make the transition to Mac OS X.

1. Upgrade to OS 9.1 for a dual-boot system
Since OS X is still new, you might want to play it safe and keep your traditional Mac OS around. To do this, you'll have to first upgrade to Mac OS 9.1. (Mac OS X includes Mac OS 9.1, since it's needed to run Classic apps.) If you upgrade your current Mac OS to version 9.1, you keep all of your current preferences, configurations, and network settings.

2. Consult Apple's lists
Apple keeps a running list of older Mac software that will definitely run in Mac OS X's Classic mode. The company also has a list of Carbon and Cocoa apps in a list called Built for Mac OS X. Upgrading your classic app to a Carbon or Cocoa version will give it better performance and stability. You'll find both lists on the OS X applications page at Apple's Web site.

3. Ask the manufacturer
Even if your software doesn't appear on Apple's lists of compatible apps, it may still run under the new OS. Check for OS X compatibility at the vendor's Web site in the tech support area or in a product FAQ. If the Web site doesn't mention OS X, there may be a problem. Call technical support if you have more questions or concerns.

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