How to download and install old macOS versions

Fortunately for users, previous versions of macOS operating systems can be downloaded and installed. But you must be careful with compatibility.

If you have an old Mac and you need to reinstall MacOS, or if you want to return to a previous version of the operating systemThis article will guide you step by step in the process. Before you start, it is important to know certain limits and prepare your Mac properly to avoid problems during installation, in addition to needing a USB of at least 16 GB.

Remember that, although this does not eliminate the guarantee of your Mac, If you can make irreparable damageSo this process is a personal risk and that everyone must think.

Can I install a version of macOS in my Mac?

Not all macOS versions are compatible with all Mac models. You cannot install a version before the one that has been pre-installing in your equipment, because the new models require specific versions of the operating system to function properly.

For example, If you have a Mac Book Pro M4 (launched in 2024), you can only install 15 sequoia or subsequent versions. If you try to install an earlier version, the system will just work.

To verify which version of macOS is compatible with your team:

• Click on the Apple logo in the upper left corner.
• Select “About this Mac.”
• Look for the exact model and share it with the macOS version available on the Apple support site.

How to download the previous versions of macOS

Apple allows you to download the old versions of Maco. However, these versions do not appear in research in the App Store, so it is necessary to access them via the following official links:

MacOS versions in the mac app store:

Previous versions available on the Apple website:

Once the macOS version you need, do not perform the installation program immediately. Instead, leave it in the apps folder, as it will be necessary to create a start-up USB. By the way, we do not forget Mavericks, Sierra, the captain or Yosemite only that a download in complete safety is not available at the moment.

How to create a USB starting unit

To install an earlier version of macOS, You will need a USB unit of at least 14 GB of free space. If you plan to do so with older versions such as Catalina or Sierra, an 8 GB unit may be sufficient.

Step 1: Format the USB unit

• Connect the USB unit to your Mac.
• Open Discs Utility (you can find it in applications> utilities).
• In the sidebar, select the USB unit and click “Delete”.
• Page it “macOS_installer” to facilitate the following steps.
• Select the extensive Mac OS (Journoldo) format and click “Delete”.

Step 2: Create the USB starter from the terminal

• Open the terminal (from applications> utilities) and enter the following command, depending on the macOS version you install.
• For example, if you will install MacOS Sequoia, use this command:

Sudo / Applications / Install \ MacOS \ Sequoia.app/Contenidos/recursos/createinstallMedia -Volume / Volumes / MacOS_Installer

• If you have to install MacOS High Sierra, United States:

Sudo / Applications / Install \ MacOS \ High \ sierra.app/contents/resources/createinstallmedia -Volume / Volumes / MacOS_installer

After executing the order, Enter your administrator's password and press “and” to confirm. This will copy the necessary files in the USB unit.

How to install macOS from a USB unit

Once you have prepared USB start -up, follow these steps to reinstall MacOS in your Mac::

• Insert the USB unit into the Mac and the Apágala.
• Mac with Apple silicon (M1 or more): Keep the ignition button pressed until the start -up options window appears. Then select the USB and click on “Continue”.
• Mac with the Intel processor: Keep the option of option (ALT) while you activate the Mac.

Format the album before installing macOS::

• In the installation window, select the recording utility.
• Choose the album where you will install MacOS (usually “Macintosh HD”).
• Click on “Delete”, select the APFS format (for Sierra MacOS or subsequent versions) or Mac OS extended (Journold) (for previous versions).
• Confirm the action and close the usefulness of the discs.

Install MacOS:

• Select “Reinstall MacOS” and follow the screen instructions.
• Wait for the process to end. This can take between 30 minutes and 2 hours, depending on your Mac model.

Alternative: rest a mac with an Apple silicon chip

If your Mac has a M1 or more recent chip, You can restore it to factory values ​​without needing a USB. To do this:

• Access “Configuration of the system”> “General”> “Transfer or catering”.
• Click on “Delete content and configuration”.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to restore your Mac without reinstalling manually.

When is it advisable to reinstall macOS?

• If you have an old Mac and the latest version of MacOS is no longer compatible.
• If your Mac has performance problems and clean installation could improve its operation.
• If you want to sell or give your Mac and must restore it to its original condition.
• If you have tried a beta version of MacOS and want to return to a stable version.

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