How to do a clean install of macOS
A clean install wipes everything on your Mac and installs a fresh copy of the operating system. Restart your Mac, boot into Recovery mode (Command + R), erase the drive, and reinstall macOS. The whole process takes about 1–2 hours.
A clean install completely erases your Mac's hard drive and installs macOS fresh. No apps, no files, nothing. This removes viruses, cleans up slowdowns, and gives you a brand new Mac experience. The process boots into Recovery mode, lets you erase the drive, and then installs macOS from Apple's servers. You'll need your Apple ID at the end, and any files not in iCloud will be gone unless you have a backup.
- ✓Know your Apple ID and password—you'll need it to sign in after the install
- ✓Have a Time Machine backup if you want to keep your files—a clean install erases everything
- ✓Check your Mac's macOS version by clicking the Apple menu → About This Mac
Fix-IT-Bot will walk you through each step, just tap, no typing needed.
Skip, I just want a technicianCommon mistakes to avoid
- Starting the clean install without a backup and then realizing you needed your files—a clean install is permanent with no undo
- Turning off the Mac during installation because it looks stuck—the installation needs to finish even though it looks frozen
- Not writing down your Apple ID password and then being unable to sign in after the fresh install
- Trying to restore from a backup that's too old and missing months of files
Signs you need professional help
- You can't get into Recovery mode no matter how many times you try. The installation starts but then shows an error message partway through. The Mac restarts over and over and never reaches the Setup Assistant. You finished the installation but forgot your Apple ID password.
Book a technician
We can fix most issues remotely in 15 minutes. Book your weekend slot and we handle the rest.
Was this guide helpful?
Can't fix it yourself?
Most issues are resolved remotely in 15 minutes. Weekend appointments only, no parts, no in-home visit needed.
