trying to delete information on old computer 2014 mid big sur intel will not go into recovery mode. tried command-R, tried option command-R and tried shift, option, command-R. Nothing is working.
iMac 24″, macOS 26.3
If you are using a bluetooth wireless keyboard, try plugging in a USB keyboard and then to invoke the recovery reboot. Sometimes the wireless keyboard drivers don't load quickly enough to activate the option.
Also, I find it best to press any of those keyboard combinations when the startup chime plays, not before and not after. Some Macs are kinda finicky about it.
If you are using a bluetooth wireless keyboard, try plugging in a USB keyboard and then to invoke the recovery reboot. Sometimes the wireless keyboard drivers don't load quickly enough to activate the option.
Also, I find it best to press any of those keyboard combinations when the startup chime plays, not before and not after. Some Macs are kinda finicky about it.
marlenefromwintersville wrote:
Thank you I will try that and I am not using a wireless key board but the computer is very slow so that might have something to do with it. Thanks again.
Sounds like the iMac's internal Hard Drive is failing. If a Hard Drive failure is severe enough, then it can prevent booting to external media including Internet Recovery Mode.
When trying to use the special startup keys, try pressing them immediately after hearing the startup chime. Sometimes pressing the keys too early will prevent them from being recognized, just like pressing them too late.
Try Option Booting by holding the Option key immediately after hearing the startup chime. You should see the Apple boot picker menu appear even if no bootable drives are found. I have been able to press keys for recovery mode from here as well (at least on some Intel Macs). You may want to try running the Apple Diagnostics to see if any hardware issues are reported. Unfortunately the diagnostics rarely report problems, but if it does, then at least you know for sure a hardware issue exists.
I did what you said (pressed command and R keys) immediately after chime and held them down and the recovery screen appeared. Took no time to delete computer. I’m going to try to send it back to Apple, if they will take it. Thanks again for your help.
marlenefromwintersville wrote:
Thank you I will try that and I am not using a wireless key board but the computer is very slow so that might have something to do with it. Thanks again.
You're welcome.
What is your intention once you get the Mac to boot into recovery?
Thank you I will try that and I am not using a wireless key board but the computer is very slow so that might have something to do with it. Thanks again.
You're welcome.
And thank you for the update. I'm happy to know you got this sorted out.
Mid 2014 Intel Mac running Big Sur won't enter Recovery Mode
