Resetting your pre-owned Apple desktop computer

Reset your Apple computer to make it safe, and ready to start afresh.

Learn how to reset a pre-owned Apple computer that has been given to you, permanently, by a family member or friend. A reset erases the computer and removes the previous owner’s details so you can make it your own.

Before you begin

Before you reset your computer, you should have the latest operating software installed. If your computer is not running Ventura macOS, some of the steps in this course may be missing or look a bit different on your computer, but you can still follow along.

Your computer should be plugged into mains power, switched on and showing the Login screen. It should be properly connected to a mouse and keyboard, and to your home Wi-Fi network.

The previous owner

You will need the previous owner of the computer for a couple of the steps in the reset, so make sure they are available when you are ready to start the course. Before you begin this course, the previous owner should also remove, or make a backup of their personal files, and log out of all accounts using their Apple ID and password.

If you plan to pass on your computer to someone else permanently in the future, you should first reset it. This will protect your security and privacy.

Getting started

If you see a screen that asks you to confirm your country, your computer is already reset and you can go to the next course, called Setting up your new Apple desktop computer.

If you see the previous owner’s Login screen, you need to reset the computer.

Ask the computer’s previous owner to enter their password on the Login screen for you. Once you are logged in to the computer:

The Desktop appears, showing icons for files and folders.
The computer needs to be connected to Wi-Fi to reset properly.
Click the Apple icon in the top left to open the Apple menu.
Click Restart.
When the screen goes black, hold down command and R at the same time on your keyboard.
If the Login screen appears again, repeat the above steps.
The Recovery panel will appear.
Click Disk Utility and then Continue.
You are about to erase all the previous owner’s files and details. On the right, click on Macintosh HD and then click Erase.
Now you can reinstall a fresh and up-to-date version of your operating software. Close the Disk Utility menu and click Reinstall macOS.
Follow the steps and Agree to Apple’s software agreement.
The operating software needs to be installed on your computer. Choose Macintosh HD when your computer asks.
It may take a long time for your operating software to reinstall, and the computer will show an estimate of how long.

When the process is finished, you’ll see a screen asking you to select your location. Your pre-owned computer is now reset and ready to set up. You can learn how to do this in the Setting up your new Apple desktop computer course.