How to prepare my Mac for a new macOS installation?
Jul 11, 2025 am 01:17 AM
Four key preparations should be completed before macOS installation: 1. Fully backup of data, use Time Machine or external hard drive and verify integrity; 2. Organize necessary account and license information, including Apple ID and third-party services; 3. Create a bootable installation USB drive to ensure the correct format and commands; 4. Clean old files and use storage management tools to free up space. Being prepared for these can significantly improve the smoothness of the installation process and avoid accidents.
Before you jump into a fresh macOS installation, there are a few key things you should do to make sure everything goes smoothly. It's not just about backing up your files — it's also about preparing your system and making smart choices that'll save you time later.
Back Up Your Data (and Make Sure It's Complete)
This is the most important step. Even if you think you're just doing a clean install and not wiping everything, things can go wrong. Use Time Machine or an external drive to back up your entire system, not just your documents.
- Make sure your backup includes all apps, settings, and user data.
- If you use cloud services like iCloud or Dropbox, double-check that anything important is synchronized.
- Don't skip verifying the backup — browse through it to confirm your files are actually there.
If something doesn't restore properly after the install, a solid backup could be your lifesaver.
Gather Your Essential Accounts and Licenses
After a fresh install, you'll need to log in to your accounts again. This isn't just Apple ID — think Adobe, Microsoft, third-party apps, and developer tools if you use them.
- Keep a list of passwords handy (preferably in a password manager).
- Check for software licenses or activation keys for paid apps.
- If you use two-factor authentication, make sure you have access to your trusted devices or recovery codes.
It's easy to forget one or two services until you're halfway through setup and suddenly stuck without a license.
Prepare Your Installation Media and Disk
You'll need a bootable USB installer for a clean macOS install. Download the macOS installer from the App Store first, then use the createinstallmedia command in Terminal to prepare your USB drive.
- Format your USB drive as Mac OS Extended (Journaled) with a GUID partition map.
- Run the command carefully — one typo and you might wipe the wrong drive.
- Once done, restart your Mac and hold Option to choose the installer.
Make sure your Mac model supports the version of macOS you're installing. Some older machines won't run the latest releases.
Clear Out Old Files (If You're Starting Fresh)
If you're going all-in on a clean slate, now's the time to delete stuff you don't need anymore. This includes old downloads, caches, unused apps, and large media files you can store elsewhere.
- Use the Storage Management tool in About This Mac to see what's taking up space.
- Consider moving big files to an external drive instead of deleting them.
- Be cautious with system files — don't manually delete things unless you know what they are.
A fresh install gives you a chance to declutter, so take advantage of it.
Basically that's it. Do these steps right, and your macOS install will go much smoother than trying to wing it.
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