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Can't find partial download of Big Sur

Currently running Mojave 10.14.6 on 2017 MBP


I tried to download and install Big Sur but got a server error message during download. My available space went from 21GB to 12GB so there is a partial download somewhere but when I tried to restart the download it began at 0% and eventually failed due to lack of disk space. Now I have 9GB of partial download but I can't find it to free up space. I've tried looking in the following folders:


Applications

Downloads

/Library/updates

/var/folders


I have displayed hidden files. I have restarted computer. I have done first aid in disk utility.


Any suggestions?


Posted on Jun 4, 2021 11:42 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jun 5, 2021 2:22 AM

As @Luis Sequeira1 has mentioned the Empty Space Requirements are not optional. Without the required space it is not going to install.


  • See used and available storage space on your Mac Specifically OtherContains files that don’t fall into the categories listed here. This category primarily includes files and data used by the system, such as log files, caches, VM files, and other runtime system resources. Also included are temporary files, fonts, app support files, and plug-ins. You can't manage the contents of this category. The contents are managed by macOS, and the category varies in size depending on the current state of your Mac.


What is “Other” storage on a Mac, and how can I clean it out?


How to free up storage space on your Mac






9 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jun 5, 2021 2:22 AM in response to Nevergetofftheboat

As @Luis Sequeira1 has mentioned the Empty Space Requirements are not optional. Without the required space it is not going to install.


  • See used and available storage space on your Mac Specifically OtherContains files that don’t fall into the categories listed here. This category primarily includes files and data used by the system, such as log files, caches, VM files, and other runtime system resources. Also included are temporary files, fonts, app support files, and plug-ins. You can't manage the contents of this category. The contents are managed by macOS, and the category varies in size depending on the current state of your Mac.


What is “Other” storage on a Mac, and how can I clean it out?


How to free up storage space on your Mac






Jun 5, 2021 2:50 AM in response to Nevergetofftheboat

Check in Applications Folder for a partial Application called Install Big Sur an for check the Trash and empty it.


Ah - the darn 128 GB SSD Apple Used to sell - that is a tough one. Purchase an External SSD Drive ( for speed of usage ) at least 1 1/2 Times bigger than internal drive or if pockets are deep enough get the TB Sized SSD. Move as much go your personal files off the internet to external ie: Pictures, Music, Videos, Poadcaste, iOS Backups etc - basically files which are under your direct control. Then inventory the installed Apps and choose what to keep and what to Remove. It is doable but at a cost.

Can't find partial download of Big Sur

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