How to Start Mac Internet Recovery Mode in 6 Easy Steps
For times when your Mac boots into issues beyond the capabilities of standard macOS troubleshooting, there is Internet Recovery Mode. As the name suggests, Internet Recovery Mode connects your Mac to Apple’s servers over the internet to troubleshoot and reinstall macOS. It’s a great way to get your Mac up and running again when other methods fail. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to start Mac Internet Recovery Mode:
Step 1: Shut Down Your Mac
Start by shutting down your Mac. To do this, simply click on the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen and select "Shut Down" from the drop-down menu.
Step 2: Turn On Your Mac While Holding Command-Option-R
Once your Mac is completely shut down, turn it back on and immediately hold down the "Command" + "Option" + "R" keys. Keep holding these keys down until you see a spinning globe or the Apple logo appear on the screen.
Step 3: Connect to a Wi-Fi Network
Once you see the spinning globe or Apple logo, you will be prompted to connect to a Wi-Fi network. Select your Wi-Fi network from the list and enter the password if necessary. Your Mac will now connect to Apple’s servers over the internet.
Step 4: Select Utilities
Once your Mac has connected to Apple’s servers, you will see the macOS Utilities window. This window contains a list of utilities that you can use to troubleshoot and repair your Mac.
Step 5: Choose Reinstall macOS
From the macOS Utilities window, select "Reinstall macOS". This will start the process of reinstalling macOS on your Mac.
Step 6: Follow the On-Screen Instructions
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the macOS reinstallation process. Once the process is complete, your Mac will restart and you will be able to use it again.
Advanced Options
Use a Different macOS Version
If you want to install a different version of macOS than the one that is currently installed on your Mac, you can do so by holding down the "Shift" key while clicking on the "Reinstall macOS" button in the macOS Utilities window. This will bring up a menu of macOS versions that you can choose from.
Erase Your Mac
If you want to erase your Mac before reinstalling macOS, you can do so by clicking on the "Disk Utility" button in the macOS Utilities window. Once Disk Utility is open, select your Mac’s hard drive in the sidebar and click on the "Erase" button.
Troubleshooting
If You Can’t Connect to a Wi-Fi Network
If you are unable to connect to a Wi-Fi network when starting Mac Internet Recovery Mode, try the following:
- Make sure that your Mac is within range of a Wi-Fi network.
- Check that your Wi-Fi network is turned on and broadcasting its SSID (network name).
- Try restarting your Mac and trying again.
If You Get Stuck on the Loading Screen
If you get stuck on the loading screen when starting Mac Internet Recovery Mode, try the following:
- Wait patiently. It may take several minutes for your Mac to connect to Apple’s servers and start the recovery process.
- Restart your Mac and try again.
Table: Key Information about Mac Internet Recovery Mode
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Troubleshoot and reinstall macOS |
| How to start | Shut down your Mac and turn it back on while holding Command-Option-R |
| What you’ll need | A Wi-Fi network |
| What to do if you can’t connect to a Wi-Fi network | Try restarting your Mac and trying again |
| What to do if you get stuck on the loading screen | Wait patiently or restart your Mac and try again |
Conclusion
Mac Internet Recovery Mode is a powerful tool that can help you troubleshoot and reinstall macOS on your Mac when other methods fail. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily start Mac Internet Recovery Mode and get your Mac up and running again in no time.
FAQ about Start Mac Internet Recovery Mode
1. What is Internet Recovery Mode?
Internet Recovery Mode is a special boot mode that allows you to reinstall macOS or troubleshoot your Mac using Apple’s servers over the internet.
2. When should I use Internet Recovery Mode?
Use Internet Recovery Mode if you cannot start up your Mac normally, or if you need to reinstall macOS.
3. How do I start Internet Recovery Mode?
- Shut down your Mac.
- Turn on your Mac and immediately press and hold Command (⌘) + Option (⌥) + R.
- Keep holding these keys until you see the Apple logo or a spinning globe.
4. What does the spinning globe mean?
The spinning globe indicates that your Mac is loading Recovery OS from Apple’s servers over the internet. This may take a while, depending on your internet speed.
5. Can I use Internet Recovery Mode if my Mac doesn’t have a recovery partition?
Yes, Internet Recovery Mode allows you to install a new recovery partition or reinstall macOS even if your Mac’s built-in recovery partition is damaged or missing.
6. What macOS version will be installed through Internet Recovery Mode?
The macOS version installed through Internet Recovery Mode will be the original macOS version that came with your Mac or the closest and most up-to-date version that is compatible with your Mac.
7. What if I don’t have an internet connection?
You will need an active internet connection to use Internet Recovery Mode. If you don’t have an internet connection, try connecting your Mac to another network or using an Ethernet cable.
8. Can I use Internet Recovery Mode to access my files?
No, Internet Recovery Mode does not give you access to your files. It is primarily used for reinstalling macOS or troubleshooting your Mac.
9. How long does Internet Recovery Mode take?
The time it takes to enter and use Internet Recovery Mode depends on your internet speed and the specific task you are performing.
10. Is it safe to use Internet Recovery Mode?
Yes, using Internet Recovery Mode is safe as long as you download the recovery software directly from Apple’s servers. Be cautious of fake recovery software that may contain malware.
