Recovery Mode on a Mac
The reasons to use Recovery mode: Wiping your computer before selling it. Troubleshooting issues, including startup caches. Reverting to an older version of macOS. Performing a clean installation of macOS to fix any slowdown issues. Troubleshooting internet connection problems. Restoring your Mac from a Time Machine backup.
How to boot an Intel-based Mac in Recovery mode
Hold down any of the following key combinations until you see the Apple logo on your screen:
CMD+R Reinstall the latest version of macOS you had and use other apps in macOS Recovery mode.
OPTION+ CMD+R
OPTION+ SHIFT+ CMD+R
Reinstall macOS and update it to the latest version compatible with your Mac.
Reinstall the version of macOS that came with your Mac or the closest one available.
How to boot a Mac with an M1 chip in Recovery mode
1. Go to the Apple Menu and click Restart. 2. Press and hold the Power button while startup options are loading on your screen. 3. Click Options Continue and provide your admin user password.
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What to do when your Mac won’t boot in Recovery mode Restart your Mac as usual and then try again to restart in Recovery mode. Reset the system management controller to fix hardware issues with your Mac’s keyboard. Reinstall macOS. Before you do this, make sure you have a backup of all your data and files.