I found a MacBook in trash. How do I wipe it so I can use it

I dumpster dived a MacBook. Can I wipe it so I can use it? I do not have the password of previous owner

Posted on Mar 25, 2021 1:57 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Mar 25, 2021 5:03 PM

You will need to perform a clean install of macOS by first erasing the whole physical drive while booted from Recovery Mode or a bootable macOS USB installer or original OSX DVD before you select "Install macOS".


How to reinstall macOS - Apple Support


How to create a bootable installer for macOS - Apple Support


You will need to figure out the exact model of the laptop by entering the serial number here or here. Then you will need to find out which versions of macOS are compatible. We can tell you what version of macOS a particular laptop supports if you post the exact model number here.

1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Mar 25, 2021 5:03 PM in response to Noelczar

You will need to perform a clean install of macOS by first erasing the whole physical drive while booted from Recovery Mode or a bootable macOS USB installer or original OSX DVD before you select "Install macOS".


How to reinstall macOS - Apple Support


How to create a bootable installer for macOS - Apple Support


You will need to figure out the exact model of the laptop by entering the serial number here or here. Then you will need to find out which versions of macOS are compatible. We can tell you what version of macOS a particular laptop supports if you post the exact model number here.

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

I found a MacBook in trash. How do I wipe it so I can use it

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.