how to restore os after disk erasure

OK. So that's the MacBook Air (13-inch, 2017). It can run the latest release of macOS 12 Monterey. (or did you specifically want the older OSX High Sierra?)

To use Internet Recovery to download the latest compatible version of macOS, you can follow these steps:

1. **Ensure a Stable Internet Connection**:

- Connect your MacBook Air to a stable and high-speed Wi-Fi network. Internet Recovery requires a reliable internet connection.

2. **Shutdown Your MacBook**:

- Make sure your MacBook Air is powered off completely.

3. **Start Internet Recovery**:

- Turn on your MacBook Air.

- Immediately press and hold the following keys: `Option` + `Command` + `R`.

- Keep holding these keys until you see the Apple logo or a spinning globe on the screen. This means your MacBook is starting in Internet Recovery mode.

4. **Connecting to the Internet**:

- In Internet Recovery mode, your MacBook will attempt to connect to the internet via Wi-Fi. You might need to select your Wi-Fi network and enter its password if prompted.

5. **Choose Disk Utility (Optional)**:

- If you want to erase the disk and start fresh with a clean installation, you can use Disk Utility to format your drive. Otherwise, skip this step.

6. **Reinstall macOS**:

- After connecting to the internet, you will see the macOS Utilities window.

- Select "Reinstall macOS" and click "Continue."

7. **Follow On-Screen Instructions**:

- The macOS installer will guide you through the process. Follow the on-screen instructions, which will include choosing your startup disk (usually the default option), and agreeing to the terms and conditions.

8. **Select the Latest Compatible macOS**:

- The installer will typically offer you the latest compatible version of macOS for your MacBook Air (2017). Select it and click "Install."

9. **Downloading and Installing macOS**:

- The macOS installer will download the necessary files from Apple's servers and install the operating system on your MacBook Air.

10. **Complete Setup**:

- Once the installation is complete, follow the setup process, including creating or signing in with your Apple ID, and configuring your preferences.

11. **Data Migration (Optional)**:

- If you have a backup of your data, you can migrate it back to your MacBook during the setup process or later using the Migration Assistant.

That's it! Your MacBook Air should now be running the latest compatible version of macOS. Make sure to keep your important data backed up and ensure your system is up to date with the latest software updates and security patches.

You can't access the recovery volume because you erased it!

You will need to use Internet Recovery (or an up-to-date Time Machine backup).

Which version of macOS are you running?

Which model of Mac are you using?

The answer affects how to do the Internet Recovery.