Downgrading macOS can be a useful solution if you encounter issues with a new macOS version or if you prefer an earlier version’s features. By following the steps outlined in this extensive guide, you can successfully downgrade macOS without losing any of your valuable data.
Understanding the Downgrade Process
Before initiating the downgrade, it’s essential to understand the impact it will have on your system. Downgrading to an earlier macOS version will remove all updates and new features introduced in subsequent versions. However, your files, applications, and settings will remain intact, provided you follow the steps carefully.
Creating a Time Machine Backup
As a precautionary measure, always create a Time Machine backup before downgrading macOS. In the unfortunate event of any data loss during the process, you can restore your system from the backup. To create a Time Machine backup, connect an external drive to your Mac and follow the on-screen instructions.
Verifying Time Machine Backup
After creating the backup, verify its integrity by selecting the "Enter Time Machine" option from the Time Machine menu bar. This will display a timeline of your backups. Select the most recent backup and navigate to your home folder. If you can access your files and folders, your backup is ready.
Steps for Downgrading macOS
1. Determine the Compatible macOS Version
Before proceeding, check if your Mac model supports the macOS version you want to downgrade to. Apple provides a compatibility list on its support website. Once you confirm compatibility, download the desired macOS installer from Apple’s website.
2. Create a Bootable USB Drive
To create a bootable USB drive, you’ll need an external USB drive with sufficient storage space. Use the Terminal app to create the bootable drive by entering the following commands:
sudo /Applications/Install macOS [macOS version name].app/Contents/Resources/createinstallmedia --volume /Volumes/[USB drive name] --applicationpath /Applications/Install macOS [macOS version name].app
Replace "[macOS version name]" with the actual macOS version you want to install and "[USB drive name]" with the name of your external USB drive.
3. Restart in Recovery Mode
Restart your Mac while holding down the Command (⌘) and R keys to enter Recovery Mode.
4. Erase and Install macOS
From the Recovery Mode menu, select "Disk Utility" and erase the startup disk by clicking on it and selecting "Erase." Choose "macOS Extended (Journaled)" as the format and "GUID Partition Map" as the scheme.
Return to the Recovery Mode menu and select "Reinstall macOS." Follow the on-screen instructions to install the desired macOS version from the bootable USB drive.
5. Restore Data from Time Machine
After the downgrade, restart your Mac and enter Time Machine by selecting "Enter Time Machine" from the Time Machine menu bar. Navigate to the backup created before the downgrade and select "Restore." Choose the "Preserve Ownership" option to maintain file permissions during the restore process.
Troubleshooting Tips
1. Resolving Installation Issues
If you encounter issues during the installation process, such as a frozen progress bar or an error message, try the following:
- Disconnect any external devices except for the keyboard and mouse.
- Reset the System Management Controller (SMC) by following Apple’s instructions.
- Perform a hardware diagnostics test by holding down the D key during startup.
2. Fixing Startup Problems
If your Mac fails to start up after the downgrade, try the following:
- Reset the PRAM by holding down Command (⌘), Option (⌥), P, and R during startup.
- Boot into Safe Mode by holding down the Shift key during startup.
- Use the Recovery Mode to reinstall macOS again.
Conclusion
Downgrading macOS without losing data requires careful planning and execution. By creating a Time Machine backup, ensuring compatibility, and following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can successfully downgrade to an earlier macOS version while preserving your valuable data. If you encounter any challenges during the process, refer to the troubleshooting tips provided.
FAQ about Downgrading MacOS without Losing Data
1. Can I downgrade macOS without losing data?
Yes, it is possible to downgrade macOS without losing data using the Time Machine backup feature.
2. What is Time Machine backup?
Time Machine is a built-in macOS utility that automatically creates incremental backups of your Mac’s contents, including files, applications, and system settings.
3. How do I create a Time Machine backup?
Connect an external hard drive to your Mac and select it as the backup destination in the Time Machine preferences. Time Machine will then start creating regular backups.
4. How do I use Time Machine to downgrade my macOS?
After creating a Time Machine backup, restart your Mac in Recovery Mode (hold down Command + R during startup) and select "Restore from Time Machine Backup." Choose the backup that you want to restore from and follow the prompts.
5. Will all my data be restored when I downgrade?
Yes, Time Machine will restore all the files, applications, and settings that were backed up at the time of the downgrade.
6. Will downgrading affect my installed apps?
Installed apps may not be compatible with older versions of macOS. Some apps may need to be updated or reinstalled after the downgrade.
7. Can I downgrade from any macOS version?
It is only possible to downgrade to a previous version of macOS that is still signed by Apple. Check Apple’s website for a list of currently signed versions.
8. What are the risks of downgrading macOS?
Downgrading can potentially introduce bugs or security vulnerabilities that were fixed in later versions of macOS. It is recommended to make sure that the version you are downgrading to has all necessary security patches.
9. Can I downgrade to an earlier than macOS High Sierra?
No, the Time Machine method is only available for downgrading from macOS High Sierra and later. For older versions of macOS, you may need to use third-party tools or reinstall the OS from scratch.
10. How long does it take to downgrade macOS?
The time it takes to downgrade will depend on the size of your backup and the speed of your external hard drive. It can take several hours or more.
