Install macOS on new SSD?

My work was getting rid of older computers so I ended up with a 2010 15" Macbook Pro. The only hitch is that they removed the HDD for security reasons. I have ordered a new SSD and feel comfortable installing it, but I am worried about installing macOS. How do I do it? Can I create an install media on my PC and install from there? FWIW... I've never owned a Mac before (woohoo! I'm joining the club!).

Thanks y'all!

MacBook Pro, Other OS, 2010

Posted on Feb 10, 2017 10:43 AM

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5 replies

Feb 10, 2017 11:06 AM in response to lbrech

You need to install an operating system, which was originally installed on the (now removed) hard disk. Without it, you will need to purchase an operating system. That would have been included on a DVD which must accompany the Mac from cradle to grave. Presuming you were not also given that DVD, purchase the retail Snow Leopard DVD from Apple: http://www.apple.com/shop/product/MC573Z/A/mac-os-x-106-snow-leopard


If you ordered the SSD from OWC / MacSales they have excellent customer support and installation videos.


If you ordered the SSD from someplace else, return it and order one from OWC / MacSales.


Can I create an install media on my PC and install from there?


No.

Feb 10, 2017 11:02 AM in response to lbrech

My suggestion would be to ask someone in your IT department for help with the loan of either the DVD that would have come with the 2010 MacBook Pro system so you can install a new OS on the new SSD or purchase your own on Amazon or eBay or Craigslist or borrow one from a friend with a similar MacBook Pro or maybe you have a local Mac User Group that could help?


You will need to install the original OS first and then upgrade to current version of OS. You didn't mention which MacBook Pro you got (there was a 13" and 15" and 17" in 2010), so if the link below is for a different model of MacBook you might need to do a little Google'ing for your specific model. There is also a way to build an USB thumb drive installer and only have to install once, but not sure if you can do this without already having a Mac to create it. Perhaps someone else would be able to confirm the ability to do this without having another Mac? You would have to be able to create HFS+ disk images and that capability is not very common on Windows systems.


Installing a new SSD drive in your MacBook is no big deal - for example you can see how on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jd3RS-GGsCI


Good luck and congratulations on joining ;-) Don't forget you can search these forums for questions that have already been asked and answered. Look for items that show they have been solved (a green filled in circle with a checkmark inside it).

Feb 10, 2017 2:28 PM in response to oxcart

My earlier post was removed by the Apple Support Communities Staff. I don't know whether they objected to my suggestion of a cloning approach or buying an aftermarket product related to the powertrain. In any case, I'd like to set their minds at rest by confirming that I'm not talking through my hat and I have confirmed that my suggestions will work. I've done them often enough having owned and administered macs since 1988.


Anyway, I would not contaminate this thread with my moaning, except that they wrote to me from a "no reply" email address. The no-reply email, beloved of the utility companies, is the most irritating thing on the internet. It is the modern equivalent of the old red-nech trick of sending the utility company a registered recorded-delivery envelope with nothing inside, just to wind them up.


I hope this does not get me banned.



Hi Ronald (oxcart),


Thanks for participating in Apple Support Communities.


We’ve removed your post Install macOS on new SSD? from the Apple Support Communities site because it contained some questionable advice.


If possible, test your answer. Check that your answer works on your own device before you post your Submission.


We appreciate your involvement in our forums, and hope you’ll continue to be active here.


We’ve included a copy of your original post below.


Thanks,
Apple Support Communities Staff

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

Install macOS on new SSD?

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