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Mac mini G4 Q&A - Revised March 10, 2007
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What version of the MacOS is pre-installed on the Mac mini G4?
The original Mac mini G4/1.25 and Mac mini G4/1.42 shipped with MacOS X 10.3.7. On July 26, 2005, these models were enhanced modestly and began shipping with MacOS X 10.4 "Tiger". The "stealth update" Mac mini G4/1.5 also shipped with MacOS X 10.4 "Tiger" pre-installed.
For the specific version of MacOS X installed on particular models, including build numbers when available, please refer to the particular specs page for the Mac mini G4 of interest.
Can the Mac mini G4 run MacOS 9/Classic applications? Can it boot MacOS 9?
None of the Mac mini G4 models are capable of booting MacOS 9, but all can run MacOS 9 applications with the MacOS X "Classic Environment". As shipped, the "Classic Environment" was not pre-installed, but it was included with bundled CD-ROMs.
For more on MacOS 9, please refer to the MacOS 9/Classic Support Q&A.
Can the Mac mini G4 run Windows?
The Mac mini G4 series is capable of running Windows through emulation using a program like Microsoft Virtual PC 7, but it cannot boot Windows or run Windows via virtualization like the Intel-based Macs.
If you need a system capable of running Windows, you would be best served with an Intel-based Mac or a Windows PC.
For more on running Windows on Intel-based Macs, please also check out the Windows on Mac Q&A.
Can the Mac mini G4 run Linux?
Yes. Adelie Linux is supported on the Mac mini G4.
Another website also has posted a helpful guide on how to install the Debian distribution of Linux on the Mac mini G4. If you are interested in running Debian Linux on a PowerPC-based Mac, this guide is sure to please.
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