updating from Big Sur to Ventura
I'm trying to upgrade from Big Sur 11.7.8 to Ventura. Keep getting a repeating circle in which I cannot choose a startup disk different from the Big Sur version. What do I do?
MacBook Air 13″, macOS 11.7
Question marked as
- Check Compatibility: Make sure that your Mac is compatible with macOS Ventura. Not all Mac models support every macOS version, and compatibility issues can cause installation problems.
- Free Up Space: Ensure that you have enough free space on your startup disk for the installation. A lack of space can hinder the installation process. Delete any unnecessary files or applications to free up storage.
- Backup Your Data: Before attempting any troubleshooting steps, it's crucial to create a complete backup of your data using Time Machine or another reliable backup method.
- Safe Mode: Boot your Mac in Safe Mode by restarting and holding down the Shift key. Safe Mode can help resolve issues related to startup disk selection and installation. Once in Safe Mode, try initiating the upgrade again.
- Disk Utility: Use Disk Utility to verify and repair the disk. Open Disk Utility (you can find it in the Applications > Utilities folder), select your startup disk, and choose "First Aid" to run disk checks and repairs.
- Reset NVRAM/PRAM: Resetting the NVRAM (non-volatile random-access memory) or PRAM (parameter random-access memory) can sometimes help resolve startup and disk-related issues. Restart your Mac and hold down Option + Command + P + R until you hear the startup chime twice.
- Internet Recovery: If none of the above steps work, you can try Internet Recovery. Restart your Mac and hold down Option + Command + R until you see a spinning globe. This will allow you to reinstall the macOS version that came with your Mac originally and then try the upgrade again.
- Contact Apple Support: If you've tried the above steps and are still experiencing issues, it's a good idea to contact Apple Support for further assistance. They can provide guidance specific to your situation and help you troubleshoot the problem.
Keep in mind that major macOS updates can sometimes encounter unexpected issues, and it's always a good practice to proceed with caution and make sure you have a backup of your important data before attempting any major changes to your system.
