How to reinstall macOS on an older iMac using a laptop?

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Level 1

4 points

My older iMac was reset and wiped the macOs as well. I don't have it backed up was wondering if I could use my laptop to repair it and add the Os

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Posted on Apr 1, 2025 8:40 AM

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Answer 1

Level 10

209,907 points

What kind of laptop is it?
Can't you boot up the iMac to Internet Recovery and install macOS from there? You should be able to boot into recovery by holding down command+r keys on your keyboard. You may need a wired keyboard for this.
1. click here ➜ Use macOS Recovery on an Intel-based Mac - Apple Support
If you can't access Internet Recovery, you will need to be able to download the macOs installer and create a setup USB stick and for that the laptop needs to be a Mac.
1. click here ➜ Create a bootable installer for macOS - Apple Support