OS X El Capitan

How to Factory Reset OS X

Mac : Factory reset / Fresh install ( OS X El Capitan )

Prerequisites

• Back up your data if needed (using Time Machine)

• Stable internet connection

• Apple ID and password

• Allow 2-5 hours for completion

• Power adapter connected

Step 1: Start Recovery Mode

1. Turn off your Mac

2. Locate Command (⌘) and R keys

3. Press and hold Command (⌘) + R

4. While holding the keys, press the power button

5. Keep holding until the Recovery screen appears (up to 5 minutes)

Step 2: Connect to Internet

1. Select your Wi-Fi network

2. Enter your Wi-Fi password

3. Click "OK"

4. Wait for connection verification

Step 3: Erase Your Drive

1. Select "Disk Utility"

2. Click "Continue"

3. Select your main drive

4. Click "Erase"

5. Keep default settings

6. Confirm by clicking "Erase"

7. Wait for completion

8. Exit Disk Utility

Step 4: Install OS X El Capitan

1. Select "Reinstall OS X"

2. Click "Continue"

3. Wait for system verification

4. Read and agree to terms (two confirmations)

5. Select the erased drive

6. Click "Continue"

7. Enter your Apple ID and password

8. Click "Sign In"

9. Wait for installation (2-5 hours)

Step 5: Initial Setup

1. Choose country and language

2. Connect to Wi-Fi again

3. Enter Wi-Fi password

4. Choose migration options:

   • Skip if no backup ("Don't transfer")

   • Restore from backup if available

Step 6: System Configuration

1. Location Services:

   • Enable for weather widgets

   • Can be disabled if preferred

2. Account setup (skip if selling):

   • Enter name

   • Create username

   • Set password

3. Additional options:

   • Keychain setup (optional)

   • Analytics sharing with Apple

4. Accept final terms

Important Notes

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

If Selling Your Mac

• Skip entering personal information

• Leave account creation for new owner

• Don't sign in with Apple ID

Installation Time Factors

• Internet speed

• Computer specifications

• Drive size

Troubleshooting

• If Recovery Mode doesn't appear:

  • Restart the process

  • Ensure keys are held immediately after power on

• If installation fails:

  • Check internet connection

  • Verify Apple ID credentials

After Installation

1. Verify system is running properly

2. Install necessary applications

3. Restore data if needed

4. Check for system updates

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Note: This guide is specific to OS X El Capitan. Steps may vary for other versions.