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Can't install El Capitan on my 2015 Mac

I have been dealing with a problem about imac for a week.I tried to reinstall El-Capitan software on My computer which was produced in 2015. Unfortunately, imac is not able to download the required software despite many attempts. How can i solve this problem ?


[Re-Titled by Moderator]


Posted on Dec 11, 2022 10:44 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Dec 11, 2022 11:12 AM

I've had better luck from the Safe Mode because I evidently have some 3rd party software that interferes with the installation so try the following:

#1 - boot into Safe Mode according to Start up your Mac in safe mode - Apple Support.

NOTE: Safe Mode boot can take up to 3-5 minutes as it's doing the following; 
• Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair directory issues, if needed
• Loads only required kernel extensions (prevents 3rd party kernel/extensions from loading)
• Prevents Startup Items and Login Items from opening automatically
• Disables user-installed fonts 
• Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and other system cache files

#2 - go to the System/Software Update preference pane and begin the download.

#3 - run the installer from the Safe Mode.


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2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Dec 11, 2022 11:12 AM in response to zekeriya81

I've had better luck from the Safe Mode because I evidently have some 3rd party software that interferes with the installation so try the following:

#1 - boot into Safe Mode according to Start up your Mac in safe mode - Apple Support.

NOTE: Safe Mode boot can take up to 3-5 minutes as it's doing the following; 
• Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair directory issues, if needed
• Loads only required kernel extensions (prevents 3rd party kernel/extensions from loading)
• Prevents Startup Items and Login Items from opening automatically
• Disables user-installed fonts 
• Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and other system cache files

#2 - go to the System/Software Update preference pane and begin the download.

#3 - run the installer from the Safe Mode.


Dec 11, 2022 11:12 AM in response to zekeriya81

A Mid 2015 iMac originally came with OS X Yosemite.

iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Mid 2015) - Technical Specifications

A Late 2015 iMac originally came with OS X Sierra.

iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Late 2015) - Technical Specifications


If you can not get Yosemite, El Capitan or Sierra, then try High Sierra or a later macOS.

see > How to download macOS - Apple Support


Also FWIW the Mid and Late 2015 iMac's can be updated all the way up to macOS 12 Monterey.

Can't install El Capitan on my 2015 Mac

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