OS X Yosemite
How to Factory Reset OS X
Last updated
How to Factory Reset OS X
Last updated
Stable internet connection
Apple ID and password
Enough time for download and installation
Power adapter connected
Restart your Mac
Press and hold the Option
key
Hold for about 20 seconds
Wait for boot selection screen
Select "Recovery" partition
Wait for Recovery Mode to load
Select "Disk Utility"
Click "Continue"
From sidebar, select your main hard drive
Click "Erase"
Confirm settings
Click "Erase" again
Wait for process to complete
Close Disk Utility
Select "Reinstall OS X"
Click "Continue"
Wait for system verification with Apple servers
Read and agree to terms (twice)
Select your erased drive
Click "Install"
Enter Apple ID credentials:
Apple ID
Password
Click "Sign In"
⚠️ Warning: Do not turn off your Mac or disconnect from internet during installation
Wait for download and installation
System will restart automatically
Installation continues after restart
Select country and language
Migration Assistant:
Skip if no backup
Restore from backup if available
Sign in with Apple ID
Accept terms and conditions
Create user account:
Enter personal information
Set up password
⚠️ Warning: This process erases all data. Back up important files before starting.
Internet speed affects download time
Installation can take several hours
Keep Mac plugged in throughout process
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
Verify system operation
Install necessary applications
Configure system preferences
Check for updates
Note: This guide is specific to OS X Yosemite. Steps may vary for other versions.