Reinstall macOS from Recovery

Use macOS Recovery to reinstall the OS — choose the right path (keep data vs erase), with Apple Silicon and Intel entry methods spelled out.

16 min read Intermediate Updated 9 Jun 2026

Warning

Erasing the internal disk removes personal data on that volume. If you choose Erase in Disk Utility, assume recovery requires your backups.

What you will achieve

A working macOS install from Recovery — either reinstalling over existing data (lighter repair) or erasing and reinstalling for a true fresh start.

0) Backup first

Time Machine to an external drive is the standard full-Mac backup for most users.
Copy critical project files to a second location even if Time Machine is running.
On managed Macs, follow IT policy — reinstall may affect MDM enrolment.
Sign out of iCloud and deactivate apps (e.g. Adobe) if you are selling the Mac.

1) Choose your path

A) Reinstall macOS without erasing

Replaces OS components while typically keeping user data in place. Use for unstable macOS after failed updates — not a guaranteed privacy wipe before sale.

B) Erase internal disk, then reinstall

Use when handing off the Mac, removing personal data, or fixing deep filesystem issues. Requires Disk Utility erase before reinstall.

2) Enter macOS Recovery

Apple Silicon: Shut down → press and hold the power button until “Loading startup options” → Options → Continue.
Intel: Restart → hold Command + R until the Apple logo or spinning globe. Older Macs may need Option + Command + R for internet Recovery.

Firmware passwords must be entered first if enabled.

3) Erase (only if you chose path B)

Open Disk Utility from Recovery.
Select the internal physical disk or container — verify capacity matches your Mac.
Click Erase — APFS with GUID Partition Map is standard on modern Macs.
Quit Disk Utility when complete.

4) Reinstall macOS

From the Recovery window, choose Reinstall macOS (wording may vary slightly by version).
Select the destination volume and agree to terms.
Allow download/install to finish — multiple reboots are normal. Ethernet is more reliable than captive-portal Wi‑Fi.

If download or activation fails

Check date/time, try another network, or use Ethernet. Apple’s servers occasionally throttle — waiting and retrying often works.

5) First-login verification

Log in and confirm internet access.
Run Software Update until required updates complete.
Open Disk Utility on the booted system — First Aid on the system volume should report OK.
Restore one test file from Time Machine or backup.
Re-enable FileVault if your security policy requires encryption.

Hosting