

That's because Apple baked each AirTag with security features that prevent exactly that. If you find somebody else's AirTag, you can't just steal it, whip its memory and then use it as your own. After the new macOS is installed, your computer has been successfully factory reset A window will then appear giving you the option to reinstall macOS > select Install macOSĩ. Select Quit Disk Utility in the Disk Utilities menu.Ĩ. Change the Format to macOS Extended (Journaled) > select Erase againħ. Make sure the ‘Macintosh HD’ startup disk is highlighted in your Disk Utility window > select EraseĦ. When you see a Recovery Mode menu, select Disk Utilityĥ. Once you see the Apple logo appear, release the ‘ Command and R keys’Ĥ. While the computer restarts, hold down the ‘ Command‘ and ‘ R‘ keysģ. Restart your computer: hold the power button > select Restart when it appearsĢ. (Again, it's wise to backup your computer and log out of your accounts, such as iCloud and iMessage, before factory resetting your Mac.)ġ. You're going to have to factory reset the Mac and then re-install the latest macOS software. If you have an older Intel-based Mac or want to reset without upgrading to Monterey first, the process of factory resetting your computer is going to be a little more tedious. How to Factory Reset Mac or MacBook (pre-macOS Monterery)

Let this process happen - don't try to turn off, unplug or interact with the computer in any way - and when it's done you'll see the familiar "Hello" screen. Select the ' Erase All Content & Settings' button.įrom here, your Mac will go black and restart (likely several times).Select ' Erase All Contents and Settings.'.Select System Preferences from the drop-down menu.Click the Apple icon in the menu bar (top-left corner).( Pro tip: Make sure you backup your computer and log out of your accounts, such as iCloud and iMessage, before factory resetting your Mac.)

If your Mac checks both those boxes, here's what to do: And second, your Mac has to be running the latest macOS Monterey. To benefit from the changes, you have to have a newer Mac that either has one of Apple's silicon chipsets (M1, M1 Pro or M1 Max) or is a newer Intel-based Mac (2017 or newer) that comes with Apple's T2 security chip. Factory resetting a Mac has been historically difficult but thanks to macOS Monterey - which Apple rolled out in October 2021 - it's now a lot easier. When you’re looking to sell or trade-in your computer, whether it’s an iMac or a MacBook, it’s a good idea to return it to its factory settings. The Perfect Apple Desk Setup, Four Ways How to Factory Reset a Mac or MacBook (macOS Monterey)
