restore mac os after HDD fail
need to re-install OS after a failed upgrade. Only screen I can get to is the flashing folder with question mark.
Mac mini 2018 or later
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First try booting into the Safe Mode . If that fails then try booting into the Recovery volume (boot with the Command + R keys held down). There select the option to reinstall the system.
The next time you try to update from the System/Software Update preference pane consider the following:
#1 - boot into Safe Mode according to Start up your Mac in safe mode - Apple Support.
NOTE: Safe Mode boot can take up to 3-5 minutes as it's doing the following;
• Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair directory issues, if needed
• Loads only required kernel extensions (prevents 3rd party kernel/extensions from loading)
• Prevents Startup Items and Login Items from opening automatically
• Disables user-installed fonts
• Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and other system cache files
#2 - go to the System/Software Update preference pane and begin the download.
#3 - run the installer from the Safe Mode.
I've had better luck from the Safe Mode because I evidently have some 3rd party software that interferes with the installation.