How do I wipe my Mac hard drive and reinstall OS?

If you’re reinstalling on a Mac notebook computer, plug in the power adapter.

1. Start up your computer in macOS Recovery:
2. In the Recovery app window, select Disk Utility, then click Continue.
3. In Disk Utility, select the volume you want to erase in the sidebar, then click Erase in the toolbar.

Will reinstalling macOS X wipe hard drive?

Technically speaking, simply reinstalling macOS won’t erase your disk either delete files. You probably don’t need to erase, unless you’re selling or giving away your Mac or having an issue that requires you to wipe.

How do I wipe my Mac but keep OS?

Click on your hard drive and select the “Erase” tab. Select “Mac OS Extended (Journaled)” from the Format pop-up menu. Type a name for your hard disk. Click “Erase.” To ensure that your data can’t be recovered, click the “Security Options” button and select a method of deletion.

Does erasing Mac hard drive erase everything?

Make a backup of any files that you want to keep. Erasing your Mac permanently deletes its files. If you want to restore your Mac to factory settings, such as to prepare it for a new owner, first learn what to do before you sell, give away, or trade in your Mac.

Will reinstalling macOS fix problems?

However, reinstalling OS X isn’t a universal balm that fixes all hardware and software errors. If your iMac has contracted a virus, or a system file that was installed by an application “goes rogue” from data corruption, reinstalling OS X likely won’t solve the problem, and you’ll be back to square one.

Will reinstalling macOS remove malware?

While instructions are available to remove the latest malware threats for OS X, some may choose to simply reinstall OS X and start from a clean slate.

How do you permanently erase a hard drive?

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery, and click Get Started under Reset this PC. You are then asked if you want to keep your files or delete everything. Select Remove Everything, click Next, then click Reset. Your PC goes through the reset process and reinstalls Windows.

How do I securely erase my Mac hard drive?

Just shut down your Mac, and then turn it back on. As soon as you hit the power button, hold down Option + Command + P + R on the keyboard. You can release the keys after about 20 seconds. Once done, your final step is to erase the hard drive and reinstall macOS.

Why does it take so long to reinstall macOS?

Since the main reason for slow OS X installs is the use of relatively slower installation media, if you are planning on installing OS X multiple times then you might benefit from using faster media.

Is it worth reinstalling macOS?

While there are less invasive ways to make an old Mac feel like new, reinstalling macOS can prove useful in some cases. Whether you’re having a major problem and want to start fresh, or plan to sell your Mac and need to reset it, reinstalling macOS is a relatively painless process.