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.

If you need a system capable of running MacOS 9 applications or booting MacOS 9, please check out site sponsor Operator Headgap Systems, which specializes in refurbished, and often heavily upgraded, systems capable of booting in both MacOS X and MacOS 9. Site sponsor PowerMax also sells systems capable of running MacOS 9/Classic.

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?

YellowDog offers a distribution of Linux that is largely compatible with the Mac mini G4. For complete details regarding supported and unsupported functions, please refer to the appropriate website.

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.