macOS Big Sur

How to Reinstall to Factory Settings

How to Erase / Factory reset Mac / macOS Big Sur reinstall

Prerequisites

• Back up all your files and data before starting

• Ensure you have a stable internet connection

• Know your Apple ID and password

• Know your current Mac password

• Set aside 3-5 hours for the complete process

Step 1: Enter Recovery Mode

1. Restart your Mac (or turn it on if it's off)

2. Immediately press and hold Command (⌘) + R

3. Keep holding until you see the Recovery screen

4. Select your Mac username

5. Enter your Mac password

6. Verify your internet connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet)

Step 2: Erase Your Disk

1. Open Disk Utility from the Recovery screen

2. Select your hard drive (usually labeled as "Macintosh HD")

3. Click "Erase"

4. Keep the default settings

5. Confirm the erase operation

6. Wait for the process to complete (indicated by a checkmark)

7. Click "Done"

8. Exit Disk Utility

Step 3: Reinstall macOS

1. Select "Reinstall macOS" from the Recovery screen

2. Click "Continue"

3. Read and agree to the terms and conditions

4. Select your hard drive as the installation destination

5. Click "Continue"

6. Wait for the installation process (up to 5 hours depending on internet speed)

Step 4: Initial Setup

1. Select your country/region

2. Configure accessibility settings if needed

3. Connect to Wi-Fi and enter password

4. Skip Time Machine backup (select "Not Now")

5. Sign in with your Apple ID

6. Enter your Apple ID password

7. Verify your identity using your phone or iPad

8. Create a new Mac password

9. Configure additional settings:

   • Siri preferences

   • Analytics and dictation settings

   • Choose appearance (Light or Dark mode)

Important Notes

⚠️ Warning: All data will be erased during this process. Make sure you have a backup before proceeding.

• Installation time varies based on your internet speed and computer specifications

• Make sure you don't lose power during the installation

• Your Mac will restart several times during the process

Troubleshooting

Common Issues

• Can't Enter Recovery Mode?

  • Try restarting and attempting again

  • Make sure you're pressing the keys immediately after the startup sound

• Installation Fails?

  • Verify your internet connection is stable

  • Ensure you have enough disk space

  • Check that you're using the correct Apple ID credentials

Keyboard Shortcuts

Command (⌘) + R = Enter Recovery Mode

After Installation

1. Install your essential applications

2. Restore your backed-up data

3. Configure your system preferences

4. Update macOS to the latest version if available

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Note: This guide is specific to macOS Big Sur. Some steps might vary slightly for different macOS versions.