How to Factory Reset MacBook

Thinking of giving your Mac a fresh start? Whether you're selling, troubleshooting, or just want a clean slate, factory resetting your MacBook is the best way to start fresh. But let’s be honest—Apple doesn’t make it super obvious how to do it. Don’t worry. This step-by-step guide walks you through how to factory reset MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and all other models, no matter which macOS version you’re on.

You’ll also learn how to back up your data, sign out of your Apple ID, and reinstall macOS without losing your mind. This guide is your one-stop solution, built for clarity, speed, and safety. Let’s make sure you do it right, the first time.

When and Why Should You Factory Reset Your MacBook?

Wondering if it’s the right time to factory reset your MacBook? Let’s break it down.

If you're planning to sell, trade, or give away your MacBook Air or Pro, a reset is non-negotiable. It erases everything—your personal files, iCloud account, apps, and settings—so the next person gets a clean slate. No traces of your Apple ID. No chance of your info being misused.

But this isn’t just for resale. A factory reset Mac move can also solve performance issues. If your Mac feels slow, keeps freezing, or has random glitches after updates, wiping it and starting fresh often does the trick.

Need another reason? Security. If you’ve had any malware scares, or just want peace of mind, resetting ensures all your sensitive data is truly gone. It’s the cleanest, safest way to protect your info.

Even if you’ve forgotten your MacBook password, don’t stress—you can reset your Mac using macOS Recovery Mode or tools like Erase All Content and Settings (if you’re running Monterey or later).

So whether you’re troubleshooting, upgrading, or handing your Mac off to someone else, a reset gives your MacBook the fresh start it—and you—deserve.

Essential Steps Before Factory Resetting Your MacBook

Before you hit reset, your MacBook needs a little prep. Whether you're using a MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, or any other model, these steps ensure your data stays safe, and your reset goes smoothly. Think of it like getting your Mac ready for a clean, stress-free restart.

Backup Your Data to Prevent Loss

When you factory reset Mac, everything gets erased—your photos, passwords, files, apps, and settings. To protect what matters, back it all up first.

You’ve got two easy options: Time Machine and iCloud.

How to Use Time Machine for Backup

Time Machine is Apple’s built-in backup tool—and it’s a lifesaver.

• Plug in an external hard drive
• Go to System Settings > General > Time Machine
• Click Select Backup Disk, choose your drive
• Hit Back Up Now

Time Machine copies your entire system. Later, you can restore your Mac—or just individual files.

Pro Tip: If you're using macOS Ventura or later, you can also access Time Machine settings directly from Spotlight by typing "Time Machine".

How to Backup with iCloud

iCloud works great if you want to sync and store your files in the cloud.

• Go to System Settings > Apple ID > iCloud
• Turn on the services you want (Photos, Mail, Contacts, etc.)
• Click iCloud Drive > Options
• Check Desktop & Documents Folders
• Make sure “Optimize Mac Storage” is off to keep full copies

This ensures your most-used files and settings are safe and accessible—no matter what

Sign Out of Apple Services and Accounts

This step protects your privacy and avoids Activation Lock problems for future users.

Sign Out of iCloud, iTunes & App Store

• Go to System Settings > Apple ID > Overview
• Click Sign Out
• Enter your password to remove iCloud from the device

Open iTunes and App Store, go to the Account menu, and click Sign Out from each.

Sign Out of iMessage

• Open the Messages app
• Go to Preferences > iMessage
• Click Sign Out

Skipping this can cause sync issues or message delivery errors on your next device.

Unpair Bluetooth Devices

If you’re using Bluetooth accessories like AirPods, Magic Mouse, or wireless keyboards, disconnect them now—especially if you’re planning to sell or donate your Mac.

• Go to System Settings > Bluetooth
• Hover over each device name and click the “x” to remove

This avoids unintentional pairing later.

Reset NVRAM/PRAM (Optional but Helpful)

Resetting NVRAM (Non-Volatile RAM) clears out settings like volume, screen resolution, and time zone.

It’s not mandatory, but it can fix random post-reset bugs.

Here’s how:

• Shut down your Mac
• Turn it on and immediately hold Option + Command + P + R
• Hold for 20 seconds, then release

Works only on Intel-based Macs (Apple Silicon doesn’t require this reset)

How to Factory Reset MacBook Using “Erase All Content and Settings” (macOS Monterey, Ventura, and Later)

If your MacBook is running macOS Monterey, Ventura, or a newer version, resetting it is easier than ever. Apple added a handy feature called "Erase All Content and Settings"—and it’s the fastest way to wipe your Mac clean.

Whether you're preparing to sell, trade in, or just want a fresh start, this built-in option is secure and efficient. No need to use Recovery Mode or manually erase disks. Let's walk through it together.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Newer MacBooks

Before you begin, make sure you’ve backed up your data (Time Machine or iCloud) and signed out of any key services. Once you’re ready, here’s what to do:

Accessing the Erase Assistant

1. Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner
2. Go to System Settings (or System Preferences on older versions)
3. Select General in the sidebar
4. Click Transfer or Reset
5. Choose Erase All Content and Settings

Your Mac will now launch the Erase Assistant, which will guide you through the next steps.

You’ll be asked to enter your admin password. This confirms you're the rightful owner and prevents unauthorized resets.

Why this matters: This step keeps your data secure and blocks anyone else from wiping your Mac without permission.

Signing Out of Apple ID and Find My

During the reset process, your MacBook automatically signs you out of iCloud and turns off Find My Mac.

If you see a prompt, enter your Apple ID password to complete the sign-out.

This step is crucial—it disconnects your device from your Apple account and removes Activation Lock, so the next user doesn’t get stuck at setup.

Pro Tip: If you're giving your Mac away, make sure Find My is turned off. Otherwise, the next user won’t be able to activate it.

Completing the Erase Process and Reinstalling macOS

After confirmation, your Mac will:

• Erase all content
• Remove all settings and apps
• Restart automatically

This usually takes just a few minutes.

Once it restarts, you’ll see the "Hello" setup screen, just like when the Mac was brand new. From here, you can either:

• Set it up as new
• Restore your backup using Time Machine or iCloud
• Or shut it down if you're handing it off to someone else

It’s the cleanest reset method—no need to mess with Disk Utility or Recovery Mode.

How to Factory Reset MacBook Using Recovery Mode (All macOS Versions)

If you’re using an older MacBook or a macOS version like Big Sur, Catalina, Mojave, or anything earlier, you won’t see the “Erase All Content and Settings” feature. But no worries—macOS Recovery Mode has your back.

This method works on all Mac models and lets you securely erase your drive and reinstall macOS from scratch. Whether you're selling, troubleshooting, or just want a clean system, this guide walks you through every step.

For macOS Big Sur, Catalina, Mojave, and Earlier

Step 1: Enter Recovery Mode with Command + R

Start with a full shutdown of your Mac.

• Turn it back on and immediately press and hold:
  Command (⌘) + R
• Keep holding until you see the Apple logo or a spinning globe

You’ve now entered macOS Recovery Mode—a built-in tool for disk management and reinstalling macOS.

This works on Intel-based Macs. If you’re on Apple Silicon, skip ahead to the next section.

Step 2: Erase Your Startup Disk Using Disk Utility

Once in Recovery Mode:

1. Select Disk Utility from the macOS Utilities window
2. Click Continue
3. In Disk Utility, go to View > Show All Devices
4. Select your startup disk (usually called Macintosh HD)
5. Click the Erase button at the top

Now choose your format:

• APFS for newer macOS (High Sierra and later)
• Mac OS Extended (Journaled) for older systems

Then click Erase Volume Group or simply Erase to confirm. This wipes all data, files, settings, and apps.

Step 3: Reinstall macOS

After erasing the disk:

1. Quit Disk Utility
2. Return to the macOS Utilities window
3. Select Reinstall macOS
4. Click Continue and follow the prompts

Your Mac will now download and install a fresh copy of macOS. This part requires a stable internet connection and may take some time, depending on your speed.

When done, your Mac will reboot to the "Hello" setup screen—just like brand new.

How to Factory Reset MacBook Without Password

Forgot your password? You’re not locked out forever.

Using Recovery Mode When Locked Out

Even without your user account password, you can still factory reset your Mac using Recovery Mode.

For Intel Macs

• Turn off the Mac
• Turn it back on and hold Command + R to enter Recovery Mode

For Apple Silicon Macs (M1, M2, M3)

• Shut down your Mac
• Press and hold the power button until you see Startup Options
• Click Options > Continue

Once inside Recovery Mode:

• Use Disk Utility to erase the startup disk
• Return to macOS Utilities and reinstall macOS

This wipes your Mac and removes your password along with everything else. You’ll start fresh once installation completes.

Note: If Find My Mac is still enabled, you’ll be prompted for your Apple ID after reinstalling macOS to bypass Activation Lock.

Special Instructions for Specific MacBook Models and Versions

Factory resetting your MacBook isn't always one-size-fits-all. Depending on your MacBook model and macOS version, the steps may vary slightly—especially when it comes to Recovery Mode and disk formatting.

Let’s break it down based on what you’re using:

How to Factory Reset MacBook Air (Including the 2015 Model)

Still rocking the MacBook Air 2015? It's a solid device, and resetting it properly helps boost performance or prep it for resale.

Step-by-Step

1. Backup your data using Time Machine or iCloud
2. Shut down your Mac completely
3. Press the power button, then hold Command (⌘) + R
4. Wait until you see the Apple logo or spinning globe

Now you’re in macOS Recovery Mode.

• Select Disk Utility > Continue
• Click View > Show All Devices
• Choose your internal drive (usually “Macintosh HD”)
• Click Erase

Choose:

• Mac OS Extended (Journaled) for older macOS versions
• APFS for High Sierra or later

Click Erase Volume Group (or just Erase). Once wiped:

• Return to the Utilities window
• Select Reinstall macOS and follow the instructions

Your MacBook Air will now install a clean macOS version.

Pro Tip: macOS Big Sur is often the last supported update for 2015 models.

How to Factory Reset MacBook Pro

Whether it’s a 2017 Intel model or a 2023 M2 chip beast, the MacBook Pro reset process is largely the same—but mind the formatting options and chip type.

Steps

1. Backup everything
2. Shut down the MacBook Pro
3. For Intel: hold Command + R while turning it on
4. For Apple Silicon: press and hold the power button until you see Startup Options, then click Options > Continue

• Launch Disk Utility
• Select your internal drive
• Hit Erase

Use:

• APFS for macOS High Sierra or newer
• Mac OS Extended for older versions

Then close Disk Utility and choose Reinstall macOS from the Utilities menu. Follow the on-screen steps.

Your MacBook Pro will now reboot into a clean setup screen. This process works across macOS Ventura, Monterey, and earlier—just confirm your chip and system version.

How to Factory Reset MacBook Running macOS Big Sur

If your Mac runs macOS Big Sur, here’s what you need to know.

Big Sur introduced a new signed system volume, so choosing the right disk format is important. Always use APFS unless you're on much older hardware.

Reset Instructions

1. Back up your data first
2. Shut down your Mac
3. Turn it on and hold Command (⌘) + R to enter Recovery Mode

• In Disk Utility, select your startup disk
• Click Erase
• Format: APFS
• Name it "Macintosh HD" (or your preferred name)
• Click Erase Volume Group

After erasing:

• Return to the Utilities window
• Select Reinstall macOS and follow the setup

Once complete, your MacBook will restart. You can now restore your backup or set it up as new.

Note: Big Sur is still supported in 2025, but some newer features (like Erase Assistant) are only available in Monterey and Ventura.

What to Do After Factory Resetting Your MacBook

So you’ve just finished the factory reset on your MacBook—well done! Whether you're keeping your device or passing it on, there are a few important next steps to ensure everything’s wrapped up smoothly and securely.

Let’s walk through what comes next.

Setting Up as New or Preparing for Sale/Trade-In

If you're keeping your MacBook, the screen will greet you with a familiar “Hello” message. This is your chance to:

• Select your language and region
• Connect to Wi-Fi
• Sign in with your Apple ID
• Set up a new user account
• Choose to start fresh or restore data

The setup assistant makes the process intuitive—perfect if you're rebuilding from scratch or returning to a clean slate.

Planning to sell, trade in, or give away your MacBook? Stop right at the Hello screen and power it off. This gives the next user a true out-of-box experience.

Important: Visit appleid.apple.com, log in, and remove your MacBook from your device list. This step prevents Activation Lock and keeps your Apple ID secure.

Restoring Data from Backup (If Needed)

If you backed up your data using Time Machine, iCloud, or an external drive, now’s the time to bring it back.

During setup, your Mac will ask: “Do you want to transfer information from another Mac, a Time Machine backup, or a startup disk?”

Just connect your backup source and follow the prompts.

Options Include

• Time Machine backup: Connect the external drive and select it during setup
• Another Mac: Use Migration Assistant over Wi-Fi or with a cable
• iCloud: Sign in with your Apple ID to auto-sync contacts, calendars, notes, iCloud Drive files, and more

Stat to Know: According to Apple Support, restoring from Time Machine can recover your full system state—including apps, settings, and even wallpaper.

This way, you pick up right where you left off—with zero stress.

Troubleshooting: If You Can’t Use Erase All Content and Settings

Running into trouble with the Erase All Content and Settings option? You’re not alone. Whether the button is greyed out, missing, or your Mac simply refuses to reset, there are solid workarounds to help you factory reset your MacBook safely.

Let’s troubleshoot common issues and walk through reliable alternatives.

Common Problems You Might See

• “Erase All Content and Settings” is missing or greyed out
• The reset freezes or stalls mid-process
• You’ve forgotten your admin password
• Your Mac is managed by an organization (e.g., with JAMF or other MDM tools)
• The reset completes but reverts to an old macOS version

These hiccups can be frustrating—but every one has a fix.

1. Use Recovery Mode (Works on All Macs)

If the Erase Assistant doesn’t show up or isn’t supported on your system, Recovery Mode is your go-to method.

How to Factory Reset MacBook Using Recovery Mode

1. Shut down your Mac
2. Boot into Recovery:
   
   • For Apple Silicon (M1/M2): Press and hold the power button until you see Startup Options
   • For Intel Macs: Turn it on and immediately press Command (⌘) + R
3. Select Disk Utility from the menu
4. Choose your startup disk (usually named "Macintosh HD")
5. Click Erase
   
   • Choose APFS for newer systems
   • Choose Mac OS Extended (Journaled) for older ones
6. After erasing, close Disk Utility
7. Choose Reinstall macOS and follow the steps

This method works regardless of your macOS version or Mac model.

2. Fixing Frozen or Stuck Resets

If the reset stalls or your Mac becomes unresponsive:

• Force restart your MacBook
• Plug it into a power source
• Ensure you're on a stable Wi-Fi network

Then, retry the reset using Recovery Mode or Erase Assistant if it becomes available again.

3. Can’t Remember Your Password?

Forgot your admin password? That won’t block you from wiping the system.

Use macOS Recovery Mode (as above). Once inside, you can:

• Erase the disk with Disk Utility
• Reinstall macOS without needing to log in to the user account

Note: You’ll still need your Apple ID password if Find My Mac or Activation Lock is enabled.

4. Your Mac Is Managed (MDM-Locked)

If your MacBook is part of a school, company, or managed IT system, certain reset options may be restricted.

• The reset button might be disabled by MDM (Mobile Device Management)
• Erase All Content and Settings may be blocked
• You might need admin permissions or to contact your IT department

In this case, you cannot factory reset MacBook without MDM release or approval.

5. Why the Button Might Be Missing

The Erase Assistant isn’t available on all Macs. You’ll only see it if:

• Your Mac has Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3) or a T2 Security Chip
• You’re running macOS Monterey or later

If you're using macOS Big Sur or earlier, or a Mac without supported hardware, the button won’t appear at all. Recovery Mode is your best option.

Conclusion

Factory resetting your MacBook doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you use Erase All Content and Settings on macOS Monterey or Recovery Mode on older versions, the steps are clear and manageable. Just remember to back up your data, sign out of your Apple ID, and choose the right method based on your macOS version and Mac model. If you face issues like a missing reset button or a forgotten password, there are always reliable workarounds. With this guide, you now have everything you need to confidently factory reset your MacBook and start fresh—safely and securely.