Want to highlight a helpful answer? Upvote!

Did someone help you, or did an answer or User Tip resolve your issue? Upvote by selecting the upvote arrow. Your feedback helps others! Learn more about when to upvote >

Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

How to erase and reinstall mountain lion?

Hello,


I am going to order one of the new iMac 27 inch. After I use migration assistant to transfer all of my OS from my current iMac 27, what's the best way for me to erase and reinstall Mountain Lion on my old iMac before trying to sell it?


Many thanks for any help or suggestions.


Jim

iMac, OS X Mountain Lion, New iPad 64 4G LTE

Posted on Dec 3, 2012 10:49 AM

Reply
5 replies

Dec 3, 2012 10:51 AM in response to Jasdelta

Welcome to the Apple Support Communities


Reinstall the original OS X that came with your computer. If it came with DVDs:


1. Insert the Mac OS X DVD and press C key when your Mac starts.


2. Go to Utilities > Disk Utility and erase the drive.


3. Install Mac OS X.


If it didn't come with discs:


1. Press Command, Option and R keys while your Mac is starting


2. Open Disk Utility, erase the disk and install OS X

Dec 3, 2012 10:57 AM in response to Niel

Hello,

Thanks for the quick reply. Do I restart holding down just the "option key" or both the "Command Option and R" keys? I've tried "Command and R" but with my wireless keyboard can't seem to get my iMac to restart other than just going back to my normal desktop.


Won't just an erase of my HDD take care of any sensitive files?


Jim

How to erase and reinstall mountain lion?

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple ID.