Introduction to macOS Downgrading

If you find that the newer version of macOS High Sierra does not suit your needs, you might consider downgrading to a previous version. This guide will walk you through the process of how to downgrade from macOS High Sierra to a previous version, ensuring that your system is compatible and your data remains safe.

Method 1: Using macOS Utilities

This method is the easiest and most straightforward for users who have macOS High Sierra 10.12.4 or later installed on their Mac.

Step-by-Step Guide

Restart your Mac while holding down the Shift Option Command R keys.

Once you see the macOS Utilities screen, select #39;Reinstall macOS#39; and then click #39;Continue.#39;

Select your startup disk and then click #39;Install.#39;

Method 2: Using a Time Machine Backup

If you regularly create Time Machine backups, you can reverse a macOS update by restoring a backup created before the update was installed. This method is also useful for restoring your Mac to an earlier state without needing to reinstall macOS.

Step-by-Step Guide

If the backup is stored on an external or network drive, ensure this drive is available to your Mac.

Restart your Mac while holding down the Command R keys, then release the keys once you see the Apple logo.

In macOS Utilities, select #39;Restore from Time Machine Backup.#39;

Click #39;Continue.#39;

On the #39;Restore from Time Machine#39; screen, click #39;Continue.#39;

Select your restore source and choose the backup that you want to reinstate, usually the last backup created before updating macOS.

Method 3: Creating a Bootable Installer

If you do not have a Time Machine backup, you will need to create a bootable installer to downgrade your Mac. This process involves using a USB flash drive with at least 12GB of memory to create a bootable installer.

Preparation

USB Flash Drive Preparation: Format the USB flash drive to ensure that it is empty.

Download the Installer: If you initially downloaded the macOS version from the App Store, use the App Store to download the installer for a previous version. If not, you will need to find a legitimate source, as downloading from unauthorized sources can expose your system to malware.

Creating the Bootable Installer: Use the provided download to create a bootable installer on your USB flash drive. Follow the instructions provided by Apple or the source from which you downloaded the installer.

Downgrading Using the Installer

Insert the USB flash drive into your Mac and restart while holding down the Option key. Your Mac should boot from the USB drive.

Select the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install a previous version of macOS.

Conclusion: Ensuring Safety and Compatibility

When downgrading your Mac, it is crucial to ensure that your data is backed up and that you are using a legitimate source to obtain the installer. This process may be more complex than simply updating your macOS, but it will help you revert to a version of macOS that better suits your needs.

Key Takeaways

Using the built-in macOS Utilities for an easy downgrade.

Restoring from a Time Machine backup for a simpler process without reinstalling macOS.

Creating a bootable installer for more complex downgrades.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively downgrade your macOS High Sierra to a previous version while maintaining the safety and integrity of your data.