Restoring OS X To Factory Settings

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Before You Start
3. Restoring OS X to Factory Settings: Step by Step Guide
4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
5. Related Articles

1. Introduction

Whether you’re looking to sell your Mac, encountering software problems, or just seeking a fresh start, restoring your Mac’s OS X to its factory settings can give your device the clean slate it needs. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to do just that, taking all the guesswork out of the process.

2. Before You Start

Before proceeding with the restoration process, ensure that you’ve backed up any important data. This process will completely wipe your computer, meaning all your personal files, applications, and data will be erased. You can use Time Machine, Apple’s built-in backup feature, to do this. Also, ensure that your Mac is plugged into a power source before you start.

3. Restoring OS X to Factory Settings: Step by Step Guide

Step 1: Backup Your Data

1. Connect an external hard drive to your Mac.
2. Click on the Time Machine icon in the system menu, and select “Back Up Now.”

Step 2: Deauthorize Your iTunes

1. Open iTunes and go to the ‘Account’ menu.
2. Click on ‘Authorizations’, then select ‘Deauthorize This Computer’.
3. You’ll be prompted to enter your Apple ID and password, and then click ‘Deauthorize’.

Step 3: Turn Off FileVault

1. Go to ‘System Preferences’, then ‘Security & Privacy’.
2. Click on the ‘FileVault’ tab.
3. If FileVault is turned on, click the padlock, enter your password, and click ‘Turn Off FileVault’.

Step 4: Erase Your Hard Drive

1. Restart your Mac, then immediately press and hold ‘Command’ and ‘R’ until the Apple logo appears. This will start your Mac in Recovery Mode.
2. In the ‘macOS Utilities’ window, select ‘Disk Utility’, and click ‘Continue’.
3. Select your startup disk, then click ‘Erase’.
4. Choose ‘Mac OS Extended (Journaled)’ as the format. If you’re going to use macOS High Sierra or later, choose ‘APFS’.
5. Click ‘Erase’.

Step 5: Reinstall macOS

1. After the disk is erased, choose ‘Reinstall macOS’ from the ‘macOS Utilities’ window.
2. Click ‘Continue’ and follow the instructions to reinstall the operating system.

4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I restore my Mac’s OS X to factory settings?
A: Back up your data, deauthorize your iTunes, turn off FileVault, erase your hard drive, and then reinstall macOS.

Q: Will restoring my Mac to factory settings delete my personal files?
A: Yes, this process will erase all your personal data. Ensure to back up any important files before you start.

Q: Can I perform a factory reset without the installation disk?
A: Yes, you can use the built-in recovery mode to erase your hard drive and reinstall macOS without an installation disk.

Q: Do I need to deauthorize my iTunes before restoring my Mac to factory settings?
A: It’s recommended to deauthorize your iTunes before you reset your Mac. If you don’t, it may count towards your total number of allowed devices and can’t be undone without contacting Apple.