Situation: The client received a return MacBook without knowing the password. They decide to reinstall macOS.
Resolution: Reinstalling macOS using 3 keyboard combinations: the Option + Command + R key combination allows you to install the latest macOS version compatible with your Mac. Here are the steps to do this: 1) Command + R for reinstalling the latest version of macOS installed on your Mac; 2) Option + Command + R for upgrading to the latest version of macOS; 3) Shift + Option + Command + R for reinstalling the version of macOS that came with your Mac.
- Backup Your Data: Before starting the reinstallation process, make sure to back up your important data. Use Time Machine or another backup method to ensure your files are safe.
- Restart Your Mac: Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner of the screen and select “Restart.”
3. Enter macOS Recovery:
As your Mac restarts, immediately press and hold Option + Command + R. Keep holding these keys until you see a spinning globe or the Apple logo with a progress bar.
This will start up your Mac from macOS Recovery over the internet, and it may take some time to load.
Note: You must have WiFi to reinstall macOS. Otherwise, you may receive this message:
Click the WiFi icon in thetop right.
4. macOS Utilities Window:
Once the macOS Utilities window appears, select “Reinstall macOS” or “Reinstall macOS [version name]” from the list of options.
Click “Continue.”
5. Follow the On-Screen Instructions:
Agree to the terms and conditions.
Select the disk where you want to install macOS. Typically, this will be your Macintosh HD or a similarly named disk.
Click “Install.”
Complete the Installation:
The installer will download the necessary files and begin the installation process. This can take some time depending on your internet speed and the size of the macOS update.
Your Mac may restart multiple times during the installation. Allow it to complete the process without interruption.
Set Up Your Mac:
After the installation is complete, your Mac will restart and present the Setup Assistant.
Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your Mac, including configuring your settings, signing in with your Apple ID, and restoring your data from a backup if desired.
Once the setup is complete, your Mac will be running the latest version of macOS compatible with your device.
