Completely Wipe Your Mac: A Guide to Erasing All Data and Settings
Whether you're preparing to sell your Mac or simply want a fresh start, completely erasing all data and settings is crucial. This guide outlines how to do this efficiently, regardless of your Mac's age or macOS version.
For Macs with Apple silicon or a T2 Security Chip running macOS Monterey or Ventura, the built-in Erase All Content and Settings assistant makes the process remarkably simple. However, for older Macs or those running older macOS versions, alternative methods are necessary.
Erasing with CleanMyMac X (for all Macs):
For a thorough and secure erase, CleanMyMac X's Shredder module is highly recommended. It removes files and folders without leaving recoverable traces.
- Launch CleanMyMac X.
- Select the Shredder module from the left sidebar.
- Choose the files or folders for deletion using "Select Files...".
- Select either "Remove Immediately" for a quick erase or "Remove Securely" for irreversible deletion.
- Click "Shred" to begin the process.
Before you begin any erase process, back up your essential data! While Time Machine is a popular option, consider Get Backup Pro for more selective backups, saving disk space and offering superior compression.
Using Erase Assistant (macOS Monterey & Ventura):
The Erase Assistant simplifies the factory reset process for compatible Macs.
macOS Monterey:
- Access System Preferences from the Apple menu.
- Select "Erase All Content and Settings...".
- Enter your password and confirm the action.
- Sign out of your Apple ID.
- Click "Erase All Content & Settings".
macOS Ventura:
- Navigate to System Settings > General > Transfer or Reset.
- Click "Erase All Content and Settings...".
- Enter your administrator password.
- Optionally back up with Time Machine (this step can be skipped).
- Enter your Apple ID password.
- Click "Erase All Content & Settings".
- Wait for the process to complete and restart your Mac.
Data Recovery: If you accidentally erase data without backing up, Disk Drill can help recover lost files.
- Open Disk Drill.
- Select the drive to recover from.
- Click "Search for lost data".
- Review found items and click "Recover".
Factory Reset vs. Erase All Content and Settings: A factory reset restores default settings, while "Erase All Content and Settings" completely removes all data (except cloud-stored information).
Older Macs (macOS Big Sur and earlier): For Macs lacking the Erase Assistant, updating to Monterey or Ventura is recommended. Otherwise, more technical methods involving Disk Utility in Recovery Mode are necessary. Consult Apple's support documentation for detailed instructions on this process.
Safe Erasing Practices: Always back up crucial data before erasing your Mac. CleanMyMac X's Shredder provides a secure erase option, while Get Backup Pro offers efficient and selective backups. Setapp provides access to these and other helpful Mac apps.
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