out of date software

Hi Scott Turner,

you can download the Ubuntu 12.04.2 LTS (support until 2017) from here
http://releases.ubuntu.com/precise/

and then use the "Startup disk creator" to create a bootable Usb-stick
OR
burn the iso to a CD/DVD (if choose this , be sure that the LOWEST speed will be selected)
Of course you have to set the BIOS (if is not set already) to boot from this CD/DVD or Usb-stick.

After you boot successfully hit "Try Ubuntu" and navigate to the OS. See if works ok for you. Maybe it will be little slow , but this is due to CD or Usb (speeds).

When you feel ready hit the "Install Ubuntu 12.04.2" icon.
At the installer window you have to BE CAREFUL to do the right choice.

You will (probably) see an entry "Upgrade Ubuntu 9.04 to Ubuntu 12.04 LTS" . This is the correct entry.
Either way you must first READ the notices at the bottom of each entry. You will read something like
"Document,music and other personal files will be kept ...... " . This is the correct notice.

See an example here
http://www.liberiangeek.net/2012/04/upgrade-to-ubuntu-12-04-from-11-10-using-ubuntu-cd-dvd/

Regards
 NikTh

This looks good, and I have performed the download and created a bootable USB device. I'm a little nervous about starting the process, because right now this is my only functional system... but if it works I will be able to come back to this page after the upgrade and let you know!
Thanks for the assistance!

no joy on the bootable USB - it presented the message "Unknown Keyword in Boot" and locked up. I have a buddy who placed an ISO out on the cloud for me but this version of Firefox isn't able to access the website because I need a plugin that "isn't available". Since i have killed three hours trying to download the latest OS version and appear to be going in circles I am going to stop for now, work with what I have until I can borrow a laptop with Win7 that will access my friend's website and download the ISO from him, burn to CD and try again.
I will get this to work!