Gadgets Xray
English
English
  • Reset & Reinstall macOS
  • macOS Sequoia
  • macOS Sonoma
  • macOS Big Sur
  • macOS Catalina
  • macOS Sierra / Mojave
  • OS X El Capitan
  • OS X Yosemite
Powered by GitBook

OS X Yosemite

How to Factory Reset OS X

PreviousOS X El Capitan

Last updated 6 months ago

Prerequisites

  • Stable internet connection

  • Apple ID and password

  • Enough time for download and installation

  • Power adapter connected

Step 1: Enter Recovery Mode

  1. Restart your Mac

  2. Press and hold the Option key

  3. Hold for about 20 seconds

  4. Wait for boot selection screen

  5. Select "Recovery" partition

  6. Wait for Recovery Mode to load

Step 2: Erase Your Drive

  1. Select "Disk Utility"

  2. Click "Continue"

  3. From sidebar, select your main hard drive

  4. Click "Erase"

  5. Confirm settings

  6. Click "Erase" again

  7. Wait for process to complete

  8. Close Disk Utility

Step 3: Install OS X Yosemite

  1. Select "Reinstall OS X"

  2. Click "Continue"

  3. Wait for system verification with Apple servers

  4. Read and agree to terms (twice)

  5. Select your erased drive

  6. Click "Install"

  7. Enter Apple ID credentials:

    • Apple ID

    • Password

  8. Click "Sign In"

Step 4: Installation Process

⚠️ Warning: Do not turn off your Mac or disconnect from internet during installation

  1. Wait for download and installation

  2. System will restart automatically

  3. Installation continues after restart

Step 5: Initial Setup

  1. Select country and language

  2. Migration Assistant:

    • Skip if no backup

    • Restore from backup if available

  3. Sign in with Apple ID

  4. Accept terms and conditions

  5. Create user account:

    • Enter personal information

    • Set up password

Important Notes

⚠️ Warning: This process erases all data. Back up important files before starting.

Installation Time Factors

  • Internet speed affects download time

  • Installation can take several hours

  • Keep Mac plugged in throughout process

Troubleshooting

  • If Recovery Mode doesn't appear:

    • Try holding Option key earlier

    • Ensure key is held long enough (20 seconds)

  • If verification fails:

    • Check internet connection

    • Verify Apple ID is active

After Installation

  1. Verify system operation

  2. Install necessary applications

  3. Configure system preferences

  4. Check for updates

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

Mac - Factory reset / Fresh install on OS X Yosemite