What is Internet Recovery?

Internet Recovery downloads recovery tools directly from Apple's servers. It is used when the local recovery partition is damaged. Requires a WiFi or Ethernet connection and takes longer to boot.

Can I downgrade macOS from Recovery?

On Intel Macs: Shift+Option+Cmd+R installs the macOS that shipped with your Mac. On Apple Silicon: you can only reinstall the current version or later. Use a bootable installer for specific versions.

Mac Recovery Mode — macOS Recovery and Reinstallation Detailed Guide

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Overview

Complete guide to macOS Recovery Mode for reinstalling macOS, repairing disks, restoring from Time Machine, and troubleshooting startup issues.

Key Details

macOS Recovery provides Disk Utility, macOS reinstall, Time Machine restore, and Terminal access
Intel Macs enter Recovery with Cmd+R (current macOS), Option+Cmd+R (latest compatible), or Shift+Option+Cmd+R (original macOS)
Apple Silicon Macs enter Recovery by holding the power button until 'Loading startup options' appears
Internet Recovery downloads recovery tools from Apple if the local recovery partition is damaged
Recovery Mode provides Safari for online help and Terminal for advanced command-line troubleshooting

Common Causes

macOS failing to boot and requiring disk repair or reinstallation
Need to restore from Time Machine backup after data loss or system corruption
Startup disk needs reformatting before clean macOS installation
FileVault locked disk requiring password entry from Recovery to access

Steps

1Intel Mac: shut down > power on > immediately hold Cmd+R until Apple logo or globe appears
2Apple Silicon: shut down > hold power button until 'Loading startup options' appears > click Options > Continue
3Run Disk Utility first: select startup disk > First Aid > Run to check and repair disk errors
4Reinstall macOS: select 'Reinstall macOS' — this preserves your data and settings
5For clean install: in Disk Utility, erase the startup disk (APFS format) first, then reinstall macOS

More in Recovery

mac-error-2002f-internet-recoveryMac Error -2002F — Internet Recovery Connection Failed

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mac-recovery-mode-guideMac Recovery Mode — How to Enter, Use, and Troubleshoot Recovery Options

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Frequently Asked Questions

No, if you choose 'Reinstall macOS' without erasing the disk first. It reinstalls the operating system while preserving your files, apps, and settings. Erasing the disk first means a clean install.