How do I fix 'recovery server could not be contacted' error when reinstalling macOS on an old Mac Mini?

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Level 2

174 points

How do I fix 'recovery server could not be contacted' error when reinstalling macOS on an old Mac Mini?

I was wiping my old mini clean of info to give it way. While doing so I caught the power card and the Mini stopped of course. When I turn it on all I can get is utilities. But nothing seems to restore it. I have internet to it. Can access Apple on it. But when I try to re-install the software. I get this error message. "the recovery server could not be contacted". It's 10 years old. Could that be the problem. I can't supply what OS it was operating on or any details of the Mini because when I click on the Apple to get that info. Nothing is there. Do I just trash it with a hammer because I would be afraid someone could in fact access the hard drive and my personal info might still be in there somewhere. Thank you. Dave

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Posted on Mar 20, 2025 12:09 PM

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Answer 1

John Galt

Level 10

149,856 points

Mar 21, 2025 12:58 PM in response to David Gurga

As long as you encrypted that startup disk with FileVault, your personal information is impossible for anyone to retrieve without the encryption password: Encrypt Mac data with FileVault - Apple Support

If you chose not to enable encryption then follow the instructions in HWTech's posted link. For a brief summary of those instructions you may find High Sierra “The Recovery Server Could Not Be Contacted" Error. FIXED 2024 - Apple Community helpful.

Or, trash it with a hammer as you described, or an industrial shredder designed for the purpose, or use some other means of accomplishing irreversible physical destruction. https://nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/SpecialPublications/NIST.SP.800-88r1.pdf summarizes them as "Disintegrate, Pulverize, Melt, and Incinerate."