Whether it is a booting issue or the application on your Mac keeps crashing, the Recovery Mode on your device becomes the most reliable tool for you that you can use to easily troubleshoot the issue. This built-in tool allows people to restore, repair, and even reinstall macOS without the need for external software. This simple guide will tell you all about Mac Recovery Mode, how to use it, and some common fixes that you can perform when required.
How can you enter the Mac Recovery Mode?
There are two different methods that you need to know about, depending on the model that you are using. If you are using pre-2020 models that were Intel-based, then you need to use the directions presented here.
1. Completely shut down your Mac and then press the power button and hold the keys Command (⌘) + R immediately.
2. You need to release the keys only when you see the Apple logo or a spinning globe on the screen.
However, if you are using newer Macs with Apple Silicon, you need to adhere to these directions.
1. Turn off your device and hold the power button after a few moments.
2. You need to keep pressing the button till you see the ‘Loading Startup Options’ on the screen.
3. After this, you need to hit the ‘Continue’ option.
This will allow you to enter the macOS Recovery mode, where you will be able to see different options, such as Time Machine Restore, Disk Utility, and Reinstall macOS.
Key Tools Present in the Mac Recovery Mode
Disk Utility - The application is very useful in diagnosing and repairing disk problems. First Aid can be used to scan for and identify problems that are likely to cause freezing, slow down the computer, or even prevent the system from starting up.
Reinstall macOS- An operating system that is corrupted can be replaced with a new one, i.e., the latest version that is compatible with your machine, without compromising your files.
Restore From Time Machine - In case of a disaster, the most convenient way to get your system back to a working version is by restoring the backup you made as per this option.
Common Fixes Using macOS Recovery Mode
1. Fix Startup issues
If your Mac doesn’t start up, the first thing you should do is go to Disk Utility → First Aid and apply it to your startup disk. This repair is often sufficient to resolve errors in the corrupted file system that stop the OS from loading.
2. Reinstall macOS to Fix Crashes or Glitches
Continuing crashes or freeze-ups could be a signal that the system files are corrupted. Select Reinstall macOS from the options; the prompts will guide you, and your installation will be allowed to finish. Your data will be safe unless you select the option to wipe the disk.
3. Reset Password Using Terminal
Has your login password been forgotten? While in Recovery Mode, start Terminal and input: resetpassword. A utility will show up for changing the password.
4. Erase and Restore for Severe Issues
In case nothing works in a different way, you may have to first erase the disk with Disk Utility and then do a clean installation. Just ensure that you make a backup before proceeding.
You can also use the website Datarecovee to gather more information about the Mac Recovery Mode. Also, check out our new community here: community.datarecovee.com