Can I factory restore an IMAC Late 2009 without the orginal DVD's?

Question

Can I factory restore an IMAC Late 2009 without the orginal DVD's? I was given a computer and want to remove the previous owners user login and passwords. I want a fresh install like it was bought new.

Answer 1

You can create a new Admin User in System Preferences then delete the current User. This will give you a clean User but the base system files might have extensions etc installed.
If you upgrade to Mavericks, then you would wipe the computer giving you exactly what you want.
While your computer might meet the requirements, also check your applications for Mavericks compatibility here:  http://roaringapps.com/
Make sure all your software like Microsoft Office and Adobe CS Suites is compatible with Mavericks.
OS X Mavericks: System Requirements
To install Mavericks, you need one of these Macs:
          ▪          iMac (Mid-2007 or later)
          ▪          MacBook (13-inch Aluminum, Late 2008), (13-inch, Early 2009 or later)
          ▪          MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid-2009 or later),
          ▪          MacBook Pro (15-inch or 17-inch, Mid/Late 2007 or later)
          ▪          MacBook Air (Late 2008 or later)
          ▪          Mac mini (Early 2009 or later)
          ▪          Mac Pro (Early 2008 or later)
          ▪          Xserve (Early 2009)
Your Mac also needs:
          ▪          OS X Mountain Lion, Lion, or Snow Leopard v10.6.8 already installed
          ▪          2 GB or more of memory  <--- I suggest 4GB as minimum
          ▪          8 GB or more of available space