How To Reinstall macOS Using Internet Recovery Mode

macOS is a relatively stable operating system. But what if you are having trouble booting your Mac? A Recovery Partition always contains a copy of the operating system with all the data and settings. Sometimes, in extreme cases, the recovery mode or Command+R is damaged. Worry not, we will help start your Mac even when recovery mode is not working using Mac Internet Recovery Mode.

I must agree it is a tense situation when MacBook refuses to boot. When this happens, we are locked out of our system without access to files and folders. The primary recovery mode often works like a charm. But sometimes, the built-in recovery system falls flat. In such cases, the Internet Recovery Mode will come to your rescue. 

Internet Recovery Mode is an online version of the recovery mode. It is identical to the one on your Mac’s disk, however, instead of disk, the tool is hosted on Apple Servers. Mac Internet Recovery Mode is beneficial when your disk is corrupted or not being read. The mode works on both older MacBooks running Intel and the latest ones powered by Apple Silicon. 

This guide will tell you how to use Internet Recovery Mode. For the sake of clarity, we have dedicated separate sections for Intel, and Apple Silicon powered MacBooks. 

Generally, MacBook enters recovery mode when you press and hold CMD+R combinations while booting. Use the same method to launch Internet Recovery Mode. That said, the keyword combo differs for Intel and Apple Silicon Macs.

As mentioned, opening Internet Recovery Mode is different for different Mac models.

Time needed: 5 minutes.

Follow the steps detailed below to open Internet Recovery Mode on Apple Silicon Macs-

This section is for those who own older Intel-powered Mac’s. Using the steps outlined below, you can enter Internet Recovery Mode on any model Intel Mac. Press and hold Command + R on the startup screen. The system will automatically enter Internet Recovery Mode if the local recovery is corrupted or not accessible. However, you can manually trigger this action by following the steps below- 

1. Restart your Mac. You can use the power button or the Apple Menu.

2. The Mac restarts, and you should hear the signature startup chime. Now press and hole Command + Option + R to reinstall the latest macOS version. This step works for a majority of the latest Macs.

3. Own an old Mac? In such case, press and hold Command + Option + Shift + R to enter Internet recovery mode. Sometimes an old version of the OS might not be available. In such a scenario, the latest compatible version will be installed. Alternatively, you can use an old recovery CD bundled with Mac during purchase. Select preferred language and proceed to the next step.

4. There is a good chance that Mac would ask for a password. Before that select the user profile. Enter the same using keyboard (the external keyboard might not work) and press enter. 

5. Internet Recovery mode requires a solid and reliable WiFi connection. Now a WiFi menu should appear on your screen. A list of available WiFi is displayed. Select the preferred connection and enter a password. 

6. Once connected, your Mac will download the system recovery image from Apple servers. Depending on your macOS version and internet speed, the process could take up to an hour. We suggest connecting your Mac to a power supply so you don’t run out of juice. 

7. Now, the macOS Utilities window will pop up. You get multiple options to restore your Mac. You can restore from Time Machine, Reinstall macOS, or Disk Utility.

With the Time Machine option, all your data and settings will be restored. However, if you want to perform a fresh install, select “Reinstall macOS Ventura.” We recommend a fresh install if you face persistent software issues on your Mac. 

While installing macOS via Internet Recovery Mode, ensure your WiFi connection uses WPA or WPA2 as a security method. If needed, temporarily change your internet settings. Once restored, you can change the settings. In rare cases when Internet Recovery Mode is not working, you can boot macOS from USB. We hope you are finally able to use your Mac with the help of Internet Recovery Mode. Let us know if you have something to add in the comments below.