Resetting a MacBook can be a daunting task, especially when you’re trying to avoid losing your applications in the process.
To make it easier for you, here are 10 ways to reset your MacBook so you do not lose programs and data.
1. Create a Backup: Before attempting any reset, first ensure that all of your important data is backed up. This is one of the most important steps to protect yourself from potential data loss during the reset process.
You can use an external hard drive or cloud storage to back up your files. Also, as a precaution, look for the best Mac data recovery software just in case.
2. Restart in Recovery Mode: In order to initiate a reset on your MacBook, you need to boot into Recovery Mode. To do this, shut down your computer and then press and hold ‘Command + R’ while powering it back on.
When the Apple logo appears, let go of both keys and wait for the macOS Utilities window to appear.
3. Reinstall macOS: Once you’re in Recovery Mode, select “Reinstall macOS” from the Utilities menu and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
This should restore your Mac to its factory settings without deleting any of the information (including applications) stored on other locations, such as storage accessories or clouds.
4. Install a Clean Version of macOS: If you want a completely fresh start (with no apps or data), then you can choose to reinstall the operating system from scratch instead of just reinstalling it over top of itself by selecting “Install macOS” instead of “Reinstall macOS” in step 3 above.
This will wipe out everything on the device, so make sure that you have a backup before proceeding with this option!
Also Read: IOS, Features Of The Apple Operating System
5. Use Time Machine: If you have previously created backups using Time Machine, then you can use them to restore the MacBook’s data after completing either steps 3 or 4 above (depending on what type of reset you performed).
Just power off your Mac, press and hold ‘Command + R’ again while turning it back on and select “Restore from Time Machine Backup” from the Utilities menu when prompted. Follow the instructions provided by the tool until completion for a successful restore job!
6. Reset SMC (System Management Controller): The System Management Controller (SMC) is responsible for controlling certain hardware functions such as power management, thermal management, and fan speed control, among others, so, if there are issues:
- Shut down your Mac completely;
- Unplug all power cords (including battery) from it;
- Press & hold Shift+Control+Option + Power button together for 10 seconds;
- Release all keys & plug-in connections; Press Power button again & turn on Mac normally;
If this doesn’t work then move onto either resetting NVRAM/PRAM below or try using Apple Hardware Test diagnostics tool along with an official Apple technician’s help possibly if necessary.
7. Reset NVRAM/PRAM/CMOS: Non-Volatile Random Access Memory (NVRAM) stores certain settings like speaker volume. When there are issues, users should:
- Shut down Mac completely;
- Press & hold Command+Option+P+R keys together at the same time whilst powering up Mac;
- Release all 4 keys when you hear chime’s second time;
- Input your login credentials to access macOS normally again;
8. Reset Password: If you want to reset your password without losing any of your applications or data then try using Apple ID. Just go to System Preferences > Users & Groups and select “Change Password” from the bottom left corner of the window.
Then enter your Apple ID email address, along with the new password that you want to use, to reset it successfully!
9. Rebuild/Reset Launch Services Database: Launch Services is responsible for handling certain apps and their associated file types.
To reset/rebuild this database, navigate to Macintosh HD > Library > Caches and delete the com.apple.LaunchServices-XXXXXX file (where XXXX is a random number).
Then restart your machine and open Finder so that the Launch Services rebuilds itself automatically with any new applications that you may have installed recently!
10. Reset SMART (Self-Monitoring Analysis & Reporting Technology):
Self-Monitoring Analysis & Reporting Technology (SMART) monitors certain hardware issues like hard drive temperature, fan speed, etc., which can affect your MacBook’s performance if something isn’t working as it should be.
In order to reset SMART, you need to shut down the computer and unplug cords from it. Then, combine the Shift+Option+Command + Power buttons and hold for a bit. Finally, let go of the keys and reboot the Mac.
Also Read: Apple M1 Ultra, The Most Powerful Processor For The Mac
