Issue Description
You need a clean macOS installation while preserving personal files.
Common Causes
- Persistent system corruption
- Major macOS upgrade issues
Step-by-Step Solution
Step 1: Back Up Data
- Create Time Machine backup
- Verify backup completes successfully
Step 2: Reinstall macOS via Recovery
- Boot into macOS Recovery
- Select Reinstall macOS
- Choose existing disk (do NOT erase)
Step 3: Complete Setup
- macOS reinstalls system files only
- User data remains intact
Step 4: Verify Data and Apps
- Check Documents, Desktop, and apps
Explore Further
- Use Migration Assistant if needed
Prevention & Best Practices
Always back up before reinstalling macOS.