macOS Catalina

How to Factory Reset macOS

Mac : Factory reset / Fresh install ( macOS Catalina )

Prerequisites

• Back up your data (optional but recommended)

  • Use Time Machine with an external drive if backing up

• Ensure stable internet connection

• Have enough time (process can take up to some hours)

• Power connection recommended

Step 1: Enter Recovery Mode

1. Turn off your Mac or restart it

2. Press and hold Command (⌘) + R immediately upon startup

3. Keep holding until you see the Recovery screen

4. Verify your Wi-Fi connection in Recovery Mode

Step 2: Erase Your Drive

1. Open Disk Utility from Recovery Mode

2. In the sidebar, look for:

   • "Macintosh HD" (main drive)

   • "Macintosh HD - Data" (if present)

3. If you see "Macintosh HD - Data":

   • Select it

   • Click the - (minus) button

   • Click "Delete" to remove it

4. Select the main "Macintosh HD"

5. Click "Erase" at the top

6. Keep default settings

7. Click "Erase" to confirm

8. Click "Done" when complete

9. Exit Disk Utility

Step 3: Reinstall macOS

1. Select "Install macOS"

2. Click "Continue"

3. Accept the terms and conditions

4. Select your hard drive (Macintosh HD)

5. Click "Install"

6. Wait for the installation process (up to 5 hours)

Step 4: Initial Setup

1. Select your country

2. Choose your Wi-Fi network and connect

3. Time Machine backup options:

   • Restore from backup (if you have one)

   • Skip ("Not now") for fresh start

4. Apple ID options:

   • Sign in with Apple ID

   • Select "Set up later" to skip

5. Accept terms and conditions

Step 5: Create User Account

1. Enter account information:

   • First name

   • Last name

   • Account name

   • Password

   • Verify password

2. Click "Continue"

Step 6: System Preferences

1. Choose your preferences:

   • Siri settings

   • Analytics sharing

   • Dictation improvements

2. Select appearance:

   • Light mode

   • Dark mode

Important Notes

⚠️ Warning: This process will erase all data from your Mac. Back up important files before proceeding.

• Installation time varies based on:

  • Internet speed

  • Computer specifications

  • Drive size

• Your Mac will restart multiple times during the process

Troubleshooting Tips

• If Recovery Mode doesn't appear:

  • Restart and try again

  • Make sure to press keys immediately after startup sound

• If installation fails:

  • Check internet connection

  • Ensure enough disk space

  • Try resetting SMC/NVRAM if needed

After Installation

1. Install necessary applications

2. Configure system preferences

3. Restore data from backup (if needed)

4. Check for system updates

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Note: This guide is specific to macOS Catalina. Steps may vary for other macOS versions.