Reset computer to factory settings
If you are going to send devices for reuse, it is good if you have restored them to factory reset.
The data wipe features are targeted at consumers and do not meet the government and industry standards required to wipe data.
macOS
Windows 10
Windows 11
- Choose Apple menu > System Preferences, then click General in the sidebar. (You may have to scroll down.)
- Click Transfer & Reset on the right, then click Erase All Content and Settings.
- Enter your admin info in Erase Assistant and click Unlock.
- Review any items that are removed in addition to your content and settings.
If there are multiple user accounts on your computer, click the arrow next to the account name to review the items.
- Click Continue, and then follow the onscreen instructions.
NB! If your version of macOS has changed, Erase Assistant can’t erase your Mac, but displays a prompt that you need to reinstall macOS first. Reinstall macOS, then use the Erase Assistant.