Uploaded November 2024 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago

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Give your Mac a fresh start with a factory reset — we’ll show you how to do it.
Try CleanMyMac for free here: bit.ly/4fWcd3k

How to factory reset your Mac:

Step 1. Clean up clutter

👉 Clear system junk on your Mac with CleanMyMac — try it for free for 7 days:
bit.ly/4fWcd3k

Step 2. Back up your Mac

Go to System Settings
Click General –Time Machine
Click Add Backup Disk, or click the Add button (+)
Select your connected storage device, click Set Up Disk
Choose Back Up Now from the Time Machine menu

Step 3. Erase all content and settings

If you're using macOS Ventura or later, Go to System Settings – General, click Transfer or Reset, and click Erase All Content and Settings.

If your Mac is running macOS Monterey, go to the System Preferences menu in the menu bar and choose Erase All Content and Settings.
Now follow the on-screen instructions.

Tip: If you want to leave your Mac in an out-of-box state, don't use the setup assistant or your previously connected Bluetooth devices. Just hold the power button on your Mac until it turns off.

Watch this video to learn the top 8 ways to speed up your Mac:
youtu.be/V-5xim4jDpI

Contents:

00:00 — Intro
00:35 — Clean up system junk
01:02 — Back up your Mac
01:26 — Erase all content and settings
02:25 — Leave your Mac in out of box state
02:46 — Outro