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How to reinstall macOS on your Mac device?

Luca27 AUGUST 2025
Apple iMac sits centrally on a wooden desk with keyboard, mouse, plants and pen holder; Apple logo visible beneath the screen

Reinstalling macOS can resolve software issues, boost performance, or give you a clean start. This process includes backing up your data, entering recovery mode, and reinstalling the system. Here’s everything you need to know.

Back up your files

Before you begin, back up your Mac or iMac. This way, you avoid losing important files. You can use Time Machine or iCloud.

Apple MacBook with orange LaCie external hard drive connected, screen shows Finder, text about Time Machine backups visible.

Backup with Time Machine

  1. Connect an external drive.
  2. Go to System Settings -> General -> Time Machine.
  3. Select the drive, confirm, and turn on Automatic Backups.

Apple iCloud+ screen shows storage usage, photos, Drive, notes, messages, mail and family options; Apple logo and design recognisable

Backup via iCloud

  1. Open System Settings -> Apple ID -> iCloud.
  2. Choose the data you want to back up.
  3. Manually upload files to iCloud Drive if needed.

Find out how to reset your MacBook

Start macOS Recovery

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The way to access recovery mode depends on your Mac’s chip.

How to check your chip

  1. Click the Apple menu -> About This Mac.
  2. Look under your Mac’s name:
  • “Chip: Apple M1” or “Apple M2” = Apple Silicon.
  • “Processor: Intel” = Intel chip.

Compare MacBooks
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Apple Silicon Macs

  1. Turn off your Mac.
  2. Hold the power button until Options appears.
  3. Click Options -> Continue.
  4. Select your startup disk and log in.
  5. Use the recovery menu to reinstall macOS or restore from Time Machine.

Ontdek hoe je je MacBook reset
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Intel Macs

1. Restart and immediately hold one of the following:

  • Command (⌘) + R → reinstall the version already on your Mac.
  • Option (⌥) + Command (⌘) + R → install the latest compatible version.
  • Shift + Option + Command (⌘) + R → install the version your Mac came with.

2. Release keys when the Apple logo or globe appears.

Mac Recovery not working?

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If recovery mode fails, try these solutions:

  • Check your internet: you need a stable connection for Internet Recovery.
  • Use Disk Utility: repair or erase the drive if it’s not detected.
  • Use a USB installer: create a bootable macOS installer and boot from it.

Read all about the Mac mini

What version of macOS will you get after the restore process on your Mac device?

Apple MacBook with black screen on wooden table, white mouse on right, cup of cappuccino and flower vase; Apple logo visible

The version installed depends on:

  • Your Mac’s chip and age.
  • The recovery key combination used.

Most Apple Silicon and newer Intel Macs will reinstall macOS Sequoia (version 15) automatically. Older models may install an earlier version.

To our MacBooks

Our advice on reinstalling macOS

macOS Recovery makes reinstalling easy: just back up your data first. Choose the right method based on your Mac’s chip, and if you hit issues, use Disk Utility or a bootable USB as backup options.

Frequently asked questions about reinstalling macOS

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