How to install a fresh copy of macOS Sierra on your Mac
- sep
- 20
You can reinstall a fresh copy of macOS Sierra with Recovery Mode!
If something doesn't quite work right after you've installed macOS Sierra, you can reinstall the operating system so it is a fresh copy. Reinstalling a fresh copy of macOS Sierra will not affect your current settings. Applications and settings will remain the same. Completing this process replaces the core files of macOS Sierra in case something wasn't working right before.
Before you start: Back up your data
It is a good idea to perform one full backup before starting with a clean copy of macOS Sierra. You can also back up files and documents using a cloud-based storage system like Dropbox, OneDrive, or the easiest: iCloud.
Make sure the computer on which you're installing a fresh copy of macOS Sierra can be connected to the internet, either via Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
If you are using a laptop, make sure it is connected to a power source.
How to install a new copy of macOS Sierra in Recovery Mode
Recovery Mode is the special salvation of the Mac that first launched with OS X 10.7 Lion. It creates a temporary boot partition that allows you to access certain things on your computer that you might not be able to if your system froze or crashed. It is the easiest way to install a fresh copy of an operating system.
- Connect your Mac to the internet via Wi-Fi or Ethernet
- Click on the Apple icon () in the upper left corner of your screen.
Select Restart from the drop-down menu.
- Hold down Command and R (⌘ + R) at the same time. When you hear the startup chime, keep holding the keys until your computer reboots.
- Click on Reinstall a new copy of macOS.
Click Continue.
- Click Continue again when the installer window appears.
- Agree to the software terms and conditions.
- Select your hard drive.
- Click Install.
Complete the installation process.
How to download a fresh copy of macOS Sierra from the Mac App Store
You can also start fresh by downloading macOS Sierra directly from the Mac App Store.
- Click on the Apple icon () in the upper left corner of your screen.
Click on App Store...
- Click on the Purchased tab in the Mac App Store window.
- Select macOS Sierra from the list of purchased apps.
Click Download.
- Click Continue when asked to confirm that you want to install software that is already on your computer.
- Click install after macOS Sierra is finished downloading.
- Complete the installation process.
Any questions?
Do you need help reinstalling macOS Sierra on your Mac? Post your questions in the comments and I'll do my best to help troubleshoot your issue.