How do I factory reset my 2009 Mac without the original disk?

I have just pulled out my old 27" iMac 2009 OS X 10.6.8, I’d really like to factory reset it.

I don’t have any of the original stuff for it, I’m even using a windows keyboard and mouse. I’ve had a good search online for solutions, but I don’t have a lot of stuff for that either. I was wondering if there’s a way to restart the system and remove anything while you’re on the computer itself.

Posted on Jul 22, 2020 6:06 AM

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2 replies

HWTech

Level 9

68,636 points

Jul 22, 2020 7:41 PM in response to HisLittlePuppy

I would download the macOS 10.11 installer and create a bootable macOS USB installer:

https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201372

You cannot reinstall OSX 10.6 without a retail copy of the OSX 10.6.x DVD (one with a black label).

Jul 22, 2020 7:55 PM in response to HWTech

That’s super helpful! It’s all too confusing for me, but I’ve talked to my husband about the USB thing and he says he can sort it all out for me on his computer, thankyou so much!!

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How do I factory reset my 2009 Mac without the original disk?

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