Want to wipe your Mac clean and restore it to its factory settings? Whether you’re selling, giving away, or just starting fresh, resetting your Mac is a crucial step. For newer Macs, Apple offers a streamlined “Erase All Content and Settings” feature. Let’s explore how to use this, and what options you have if your Mac, like a 2012 model, doesn’t support this feature.
Using “Erase All Content and Settings” on Modern Macs
If you have a Mac running macOS Monterey or later, equipped with Apple silicon or the Apple T2 Security Chip, the “Erase All Content and Settings” feature is the quickest and most secure way to factory reset your device. This tool efficiently removes all your personal data, settings, and installed applications while preserving the currently installed operating system.
Here’s how to use it on macOS Ventura and Monterey:
For macOS Ventura (and later):
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Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen and select System Settings.
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In the System Settings window, find and click on General in the sidebar.
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Scroll down the General settings panel until you see Transfer or Reset and click on it.
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Finally, click the Erase All Content and Settings button.
Activate Mac window with Restart button
For macOS Monterey:
- Go to the Apple menu and choose System Preferences.
- In the menu bar at the top of your screen, click on System Preferences again and select Erase All Content and Settings from the dropdown menu.
After selecting “Erase All Content and Settings” on either macOS version, an erase assistant will launch. This assistant will guide you through the remaining steps. You’ll be presented with a summary of everything that will be erased, including settings, media, data, and apps. Follow the on-screen prompts to proceed.
During the process, you might need to connect Bluetooth accessories like your keyboard or mouse again. If prompted, ensure your accessories are turned on and discoverable. If a Bluetooth device doesn’t connect within 30 seconds, try turning it off and then back on. When reconnecting a Bluetooth keyboard, you may also be asked to choose your preferred language.
You might also be asked to connect to a Wi-Fi network or plug in a network cable for activation. Use the Wi-Fi menu in the upper-right corner of your screen to select a network if needed.
Once your Mac has been activated, click Restart to finalize the reset process. After restarting, the setup assistant will greet you, allowing you to set up your Mac as if it were brand new.
Leaving Your Mac in an Out-of-Box State: If you intend to sell, donate, or trade in your Mac and want it to appear as if it just came out of the box, stop at the setup assistant screen. Do not proceed with the setup or connect any of your Bluetooth devices. Simply press and hold the power button until your Mac shuts down.
What If “Erase All Content and Settings” Isn’t Available on Your Mac?
The “Erase All Content and Settings” feature is a convenient option, but it’s only available on Macs with Apple silicon or the T2 Security Chip running macOS Monterey or later. If you have an older Mac, such as a 2012 model, or one that doesn’t meet these requirements, you’ll need to use a different method to factory reset it.
For Macs that do not support “Erase All Content and Settings,” the traditional method involves using Disk Utility in macOS Recovery mode to erase your startup disk and then reinstalling macOS. While this process is a bit more involved, it effectively achieves a factory reset for older Macs, including models from 2012.
Trade-In and Recycling Options: Regardless of your Mac’s model or condition, Apple provides options for trading in or recycling your device through Apple Trade In. This program allows you to receive credit towards a new purchase or recycle your Mac responsibly. Learn more about trading in or recycling your Mac with Apple Trade In.
By understanding both the “Erase All Content and Settings” feature and alternative methods, you can confidently factory reset your Mac, ensuring your personal data is securely erased no matter the model you own.
