How to Factory Reset a MacBook Air?

Factory resetting a MacBook Air wipes it back to its original state — useful for fixing problems or before selling it. The method depends on your macOS version.

⚠️ Before you reset:

• Back up your data with Time Machine or to iCloud/an external drive — a reset erases everything.
• Sign out of accounts: sign out of iCloud (Apple ID), iMessage, and ideally unpair Bluetooth devices.

Method 1 — "Erase All Content and Settings" (easiest; macOS Monterey or later, especially Apple Silicon/T2 Macs):

1. Open System Settings (or System Preferences).
2. Go to General → Transfer or Reset (in older layouts, click the menu named after the app).
3. Click "Erase All Content and Settings."
4. Enter your password, confirm, and the Mac will erase everything and restart to the setup screen — just like a new Mac.

Method 2 — Recovery Mode (older Macs without that option):

1. Shut down the MacBook Air.
2. Enter Recovery Mode:
   • Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3): press and hold the power button until "Loading startup options" appears, then choose Options → Continue.
   • Intel Macs: turn on and immediately hold Command (⌘) + R until the Apple logo appears.
3. In the macOS Utilities window, open Disk Utility, select your startup disk (Macintosh HD), and click Erase (format as APFS).
4. Quit Disk Utility, then choose Reinstall macOS and follow the prompts.

After the reset: The Mac boots to the setup assistant. If you're selling it, leave it there for the new owner. If keeping it, sign in and restore from your backup.