How to Reset Your Mac: Factory Reset macOS Safely and Easily

If your Mac is running slow, acting up, or you’re planning to sell or give it away, a factory reset is the best solution. Resetting your Mac wipes all your data and reinstalls a fresh version of macOS, giving you a clean slate.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to reset your Mac safely and easily, with or without keeping your data.

When Should You Reset Your Mac?

• You’re experiencing performance issues or bugs

• Preparing to sell, donate, or trade in your device

• Want a clean slate without leftover files or settings

• System corruption or malware issues

Things to Do Before Resetting

1. Backup Your Data

       Use Time Machine or an external drive to back up files.

1. Sign Out of iCloud and Apple Services
   Go to:
   System Settings > Apple ID > Overview > Sign Out

2. Unpair Devices
   Disconnect Bluetooth devices like keyboards, mice, and AirPods.

3. Ensure You’re Connected to Wi-Fi and Power

How to Reset Your Mac (macOS Monterey & Later)

This process uses Erase Assistant, available on Macs with Apple silicon or T2 security chips.

1. Click the Apple Menu > System Settings

2. Go to General > Transfer or Reset > Erase All Content and Settings

3. Authenticate
   Enter your admin password when prompted.

4. Erase Assistant
   Follow on-screen instructions to erase your Mac.

5. Reinstall macOS
   After reset, your Mac will restart and guide you through setting up macOS.

🔗 Learn more from Apple Support: How to Erase and Reinstall macOS

How to Reset Macs Without “Erase Assistant” (Older macOS)

1. Restart Your Mac in Recovery Mode

• Intel Mac: Hold Command + R while restarting
• Apple Silicon: Hold the Power Button until options appear

1. Open Disk Utility
   Select your startup disk and click Erase

2. Reinstall macOS
   Exit Disk Utility > Choose “Reinstall macOS” from the main Recovery screen

3. Follow the Setup Instructions After Restart

What Happens After a Reset?

• All files, apps, and settings are erased

• macOS is freshly reinstalled

• You can set it up as new or restore from backup

Post-Reset Steps

• Sign in with your Apple ID

• Restore from Time Machine or iCloud (optional)

• Reinstall essential apps

• Check for system updates

Final Tips

• Always back up your data before resetting

• Be sure to sign out of Apple ID to avoid Activation Lock

• Don’t interrupt the reinstall process