How can I resolve iCloud login issues on older Macs (macOS Big Sur and earlier) due to Advanced Data Protection incompatibility?

Troubleshooting iCloud Login Issues on Older Macs (macOS Big Sur and Earlier)

The Likely Cause:

This issue often occurs when a security feature called "Advanced Data Protection" (ADP) is enabled for your Apple ID. ADP provides enhanced encryption for your iCloud data, but it requires all devices accessing your account to meet certain minimum software versions. Older Macs running macOS Big Sur or earlier do not meet these requirements.

Solution: Turn Off Advanced Data Protection (ADP)

You will need another Apple device that meets the minimum software requirements to manage this setting. This could be:

• An iPhone or iPad running iOS 16.2 or later.
• Another Mac running macOS 13.1 (Ventura) or later.

Steps to Turn Off ADP:

On an iPhone or iPad:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap on [Your Name] at the top.
3. Tap on iCloud.
4. Scroll down and tap on Advanced Data Protection.
5. Tap Turn Off under "Advanced Data Protection".
6. Confirm by tapping Turn Off Advanced Data Protection.
7. Follow any on-screen instructions, which might include setting up recovery contacts or a recovery key.

On a Mac:

1. Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner and select System Settings (or System Preferences).
2. Click on [Your Name] at the top.
3. Click on iCloud.
4. Click on Advanced Data Protection.
5. Click Turn Off… next to "Advanced Data Protection".
6. Confirm by clicking Turn Off Advanced Data Protection.
7. Follow any on-screen instructions, which might include setting up recovery contacts or a recovery key.

After turning off ADP on the compatible device, wait a few minutes and then try logging into your iCloud account on your older Mac.

Important Considerations:

• Security Trade-off: Disabling Advanced Data Protection will mean that Apple has the keys to decrypt most of your iCloud data. While convenient for older devices, it does reduce the enhanced security benefits of ADP. Consider this trade-off carefully.
• Alternative Access: iCloud via Web Browser: As an alternative to turning off ADP, you can access most of your iCloud data (Mail, Contacts, Calendar, Photos, Drive, etc.) on your older Mac by going to the iCloud website in a web browser: https://www.icloud.com/. This won't provide full system integration.
• Long-Term Solution: Upgrade Your Mac: To fully utilize all the latest iCloud features and security enhancements like Advanced Data Protection, consider upgrading to a newer Mac model that is compatible with the latest macOS versions.

Disclaimer: These instructions are based on common scenarios and might vary slightly depending on individual Apple ID configurations and software versions.

[Re-Titled by Moderator]