You're starting with a MacBook and want to reinstall macOS. Need guidance on how to do that?
You're starting with a MacBook and want to reinstall macOS. Need guidance on how to do that?
Recently I acquired an unfamiliar older MacBook, probably from around 2010. It was inexpensive and the seller seemed unskilled with its setup. It sat idle, collecting dust. Upon opening it, the operating system wasn’t installed and the device had been reset. I thought I’d troubleshoot at home. Now I’m attempting to install OS El Capitan. When I launch the installation wizard and log in with my Apple ID, the message reads something like this: “Product not available.” Initially it wouldn’t install, but after adjusting the date in Terminal it did. I then tried creating a bootable USB using Transmac. Once started, I pressed the Option key to boot from the USB, and it attempted to load. However, upon launching, the Language Chooser disappeared and the screen returned to normal, as if no bootable drive was detected. I’m using a USB 2.0 drive—anything else? I’m desperate to get the OS back up and have a functional MacBook. I only have another Windows PC and laptop available. Should I try a different USB drive? Did the bootable USB fail? Is there an issue with the MacBook itself? I can’t find any information online about the Language Chooser closing by itself or not showing up. Only posts mentioning MacBooks stuck in that state are visible.
Which device model are you using? (The model number should be visible on the bottom, unless it’s damaged or worn. If you have the serial code, input it into EveryMac’s tool for assistance.) For newer systems, Internet Recovery might help. Connect via Ethernet if possible—it’s simpler than Wi-Fi just to fetch the recovery file.
I submitted the request and unfortunately received a 2009 model. It was affordable despite being in poor shape. I attempted all three recovery methods, but each time the Language Selector appeared briefly before returning to the main screen. Now what should I do?
Consider using a more recent version of macOS similar to the one released around that time.