Level 1

8 points

how do I reinstall MacOS after blinking?

Hi, I picked up a 21" iMac 2017. The guy said he cleared the computer but had a hard time reinstalling the OS. When I booted it up I got a blinking ?. When I booted with 'Ctrl R' I got the internet login. Signed in. Took 9 minutes to get to the MacOS utility. When I click 'reinstall MacOS' wants to install 'High Sierra', which is fine with me as can always upgrade. After a minute got the message 'The recovery server could not be contacted”. Is there another way to get the OS installed? Any help would be gratefully appreciated. Tks, P

iMac 21.5″, macOS 10.15

Posted on Dec 9, 2023 6:39 PM

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Level 10

251,399 points

Dec 9, 2023 7:59 PM in response to businko

Hopefully the drive isn't dying.:(

Might need an external Drive or SSD to install to...

Start up from macOS Recovery

Option-⌘-R

Upgrade to the latest macOS compatible with your Mac.

In Disk Utility>View, select Show all Devices, highlight the top left entry.

APFS won't work for Sierra or earlier, Sierra or earlier needs MacOS Extended Journaled. High Sierra won't work for APFS on earlier Macs.

What has often worked for others is to use this Restore Method instead of CMD+r keys...

Option-⌘-R

Upgrade to the latest macOS compatible with your Mac.

Messed up Factory Reset on MacBook Pro Mi… - Apple Community

https://discussions.apple.com/thread/254793247?answerId=258936149022#258936149022

Clean Install of High Sierra: Multiple Fa… - Apple Community

https://discussions.apple.com/thread/255040953?answerId=259391356022#259391356022

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how do I reinstall MacOS after blinking?

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