Factory resetting a MacBook Air wipes your files and settings and reinstalls a clean copy of macOS, ready for a new owner or a fresh start. On recent models the fastest route is the built-in Erase All Content and Settings tool.
What you'll need
- Your MacBook Air
- Your administrator password
- An internet connection
- A power adapter
Step by step
- Back up your filesUse Time Machine with an external drive, or copy important files to iCloud or another drive, so nothing important is lost.
- Sign out of your accountsNewer Macs sign you out automatically during the erase, but on older ones sign out of iCloud, iMessage, and iTunes manually first.
- Open Erase All Content and SettingsOpen System Settings, go to General, then Transfer or Reset, and choose Erase All Content and Settings. On older macOS this option lives in the menu bar under the Apple menu.
- Authenticate and confirmEnter your administrator password, review the list of what will be removed, and confirm to begin the erase.
- Let it finish and set upThe Mac erases and restarts to the setup assistant. Leave it on power until it reaches the Hello screen or the welcome setup.
Handy tips
- Keep the power adapter connected throughout so the process is not interrupted.
- If you plan to give the Mac away, stop at the setup screen and let the new owner continue.
- Note your Wi-Fi details, as you may need to reconnect during the erase or reinstall.
Heads up
- Erasing permanently deletes all files and accounts on the Mac. Confirm your backup works before starting.
- On much older Macs without the Erase All Content and Settings option, you must reinstall macOS from Recovery, which is a longer and more manual process.
FAQ
Does my MacBook Air support Erase All Content and Settings?
Macs with Apple silicon or the T2 security chip running macOS Monterey or later support it. Older Macs need to reinstall macOS through Recovery instead.
Will resetting remove my Apple Account?
It signs the Mac out of your account and removes Activation Lock, but your Apple Account itself stays active for use on other devices.
How long does a factory reset take?
The erase itself is usually quick, but reinstalling macOS afterward can take 20 to 40 minutes or more depending on your internet speed.