How to factory reset a Mac

Resetting your old Mac: A step-by-step guide

Upgraded to a new Mac and unsure what to do with your old one? Don't worry, this guide walks you through factory resetting your old Mac, preparing it for a new owner or sale. Remember, this process erases all data, so ensure you've backed up everything important beforehand.

Method 1: For most modern Macs (Apple silicon or Intel Macs with Apple T2 security chip - generally those made after 2018)

Modern macOS versions offer a streamlined reset process.

1. Access System Settings: Click the Apple logo in the top-right corner and select "System Settings".

2. Navigate to General & Reset: In the left sidebar, click "General". Scroll to the bottom and select "Transfer or Reset".

3. Use Erase Assistant: The Erase Assistant will launch. If prompted to enable secure boot, proceed to Method 2. Otherwise, follow the on-screen instructions. You'll be asked to confirm the deletion of all data, provide your user and potentially Apple account credentials.

4. Completion: Your Mac will restart and display a progress bar. Once complete, the initial setup screen will appear. Power off your Mac using the power button. It's now ready for its next use.

Method 2: For older Intel Macs (without the "Erase All Content and Settings" option)

This method requires using Recovery Mode.

1. Backup: Again, ensure all critical files are backed up.

2. Boot into Recovery Mode: Shut down your Mac. Power it on while holding down Command R.

3. Use Disk Utility: In the macOS Utilities window, select "Disk Utility" and click "Continue". Select your Mac's hard drive (likely "Macintosh HD"), click "Erase" in the toolbar, choose the APFS format (or your preferred format), and wait for the process to finish. Close Disk Utility.

4. Reinstall macOS: Back in the macOS Utilities window, select "Reinstall macOS" and follow the on-screen instructions, choosing the erased drive as the installation location.

5. Completion: Your Mac will restart multiple times. Once the process is complete, the initial setup screen will appear. Power off your Mac using the power button. It's now factory reset.

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