iMac hardware erased but cant install os x lion 10.7

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Level 1

4 points

iMac hardware erased but cant install os x lion 10.7

In an attempt to restore my iMac, I have managed to erase the hard drive using disk utility but when prompted to reinstall lion, it states that the iMac needs verified with Apple via the app store, but my current apple id is not working. Someone has advised that the apple id needs to be the one used when setting up the machine originally, but I cant remember it as it was year's ago (? 2010). How can I over-ride this? Also, to make matters worse, I cannot contact apple directly as the serial number has now disappeared when clicking on the apple sign on the top LHS, the only options are: start up disk, restart, shutdown, so "about this mac" has disappeared. It is not located on the outside of the machine either. TIA

iMac, Mac OS X (10.7)

Posted on Jan 2, 2018 4:25 AM

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Answer 1

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SeaPapp

Level 7

26,486 points

Jan 2, 2018 6:49 AM in response to rimmer07

The serial number of your iMac is printed on its surface. To find it, shut down your iMac and unplug any connected cables so you can safely move it. Then gently lay the computer face-down on a soft, clean towel or cloth.

The serial number is on the underside of the base (or foot) of the iMac, along with a bar code and regulatory markings.

Identify your iMac - Apple Support

If your iMac can access Internet Recovery (command-option-r) you should be able to reinstall the original OS

About macOS Recovery - Apple Support

If your iMac shipped with install discs or a usb installer use those to install the original OS then upgrade from there.

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Answer 2

rimmer07 Author

Level 1

4 points

Jan 2, 2018 7:03 AM in response to rimmer07

Thanks Mike, I at least have the serial number now 🙂

We have access to the internet so when I tried the internet recovery, it took me to the app store log-in to reinstall, but I keep getting an error message "this cannot be carried out at the moment, please try later", that's why someone had suggested that perhaps it had to be the original log-in when it was first registered, which I don't have as it was so long ago (is this correct)?

Unfortunately the dvd part is wrecked as my kids stuck a few movies into the slot which are stuck so this is not an option now.

Also, do I need to purchase another version of lion or should this be free of charge?

Many thanks

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Answer 3

SeaPapp

Level 7

26,486 points

Jan 2, 2018 7:57 PM in response to rimmer07

Your iMac must be a 2011 or later in order to access internet recovery, I was hoping you could identify it with the serial number. If you don't have the login information that the OS was purchased under you're going to have to purchase it again. If the iMac is capable of running High Sierra, which it sounds like it is, that would be free but you'll need access to the app store.

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