Installing a macOS image primarily involves acquiring the macOS installer application from a downloaded disk image (.dmg) file. This process prepares your Mac to then run the installer, which can be used for upgrading your current macOS version or performing a clean installation.
Steps to Install the macOS Installer
To get the macOS installer onto your system from a disk image, follow these straightforward steps as outlined by Apple support:
1. Download the macOS Disk Image (.dmg)
Your first step is to obtain the necessary macOS disk image file. These files are typically downloaded directly from Apple's support pages or through the Mac App Store for specific macOS versions.
- Action: Locate and download the macOS disk image (
.dmg) file. - Reference: "Use these links to download a macOS disk image (.dmg) file." For official download sources and more details, refer to the Apple Support page.
2. Open the .dmg File
Once the .dmg file is downloaded, it acts as a virtual disk. Opening it mounts this virtual disk, revealing its contents.
- Action: Double-click the downloaded
.dmgfile. - Outcome: This action will open the disk image, presenting you with its contents, which typically include a package (
.pkg) file. - Reference: "Double-click the .dmg file to open it and see the package (.pkg) file within."
3. Launch the Installer Package (.pkg)
Inside the .dmg file, you will find the installer package. This package contains the necessary components to install the macOS installer application onto your Mac.
- Action: Double-click the
.pkgfile. - Instructions: Follow the on-screen prompts and instructions provided by the installer wizard. This process will place the macOS installer application directly into your Applications folder.
- Reference: "Double-click the .pkg file, then follow the onscreen instructions to install the macOS installer into your Applications folder."
Overview of File Types and Actions
For clarity, here's a summary of the file types involved and the actions required:
| File Type | Description | Action to Perform | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
.dmg (Disk Image) |
A container for software files. | Double-click | Mounts the image, revealing its content |
.pkg (Package) |
An installer package within the .dmg. | Double-click, then follow instructions | Installs the macOS installer app into your Applications folder |
After Installing the macOS Installer
Once the .pkg file has completed its process, the macOS installer application (e.g., "Install macOS Sonoma" or "Install macOS Ventura") will be located in your Mac's /Applications folder. This application is what you will then launch to begin the actual installation of the macOS operating system onto your computer's drive.
This initial process ensures that the necessary files are in place for you to proceed with upgrading or reinstalling macOS, depending on your needs.
Important Considerations
- Disk Space: Ensure you have sufficient free disk space on your Mac before starting the download and installation of the macOS installer, and even more for the actual macOS installation.
- Internet Connection: A stable internet connection is required for downloading the
.dmgfile.
