If you're considering the switch from macOS Catalina back to Mojave, you must be grappling with some of the newer system's quirks or compatibility issues. It's important to make sure you've backed up your data thoroughly because the downgrade process, while straightforward, erases your current system. You'll need a bootable installer for Mojave, which can be created using a simple set of commands in Terminal and a USB drive. However, the real challenge lies in the details—like managing the potential pitfalls during the installation process. Stick around to uncover some invaluable tips that could smooth out your shift significantly.
Preparation for Downgrade
Prior to starting the downgrade from Catalina to Mojave, it's important to back up all your important data.
You'll need to create a bootable installer for macOS Mojave. First, check your Mac's compatibility with Mojave and gather a USB flash drive with adequate space.
Using another Mac, download the Mojave installer from the App Store.
Next, use Disk Utility to format the USB as a bootable drive, then use Terminal to transfer the Mojave installer onto the USB. This bootable installer will be essential for the downgrade process.
Backup Your Mac
To safeguard your data remains secure throughout the downgrade process, it's important to back up your Mac using Time Machine before switching from Catalina to Mojave.
Start by connecting an external drive that will serve as your backup drive. Open Time Machine preferences from the System Preferences and select this drive as your backup destination. Make sure you save passwords, license keys, and essential settings during this process, as these will be essential for restoring your system's functionality post-downgrade.
Next, initiate a Time Machine backup. This might take some time depending on the amount of data you have. Once the backup is complete, verify that your data is accurately captured in the backup to ensure you can restore from Time Machine effectively if needed.
Create Bootable Mojave Installer
Once your Mac is backed up, the next step is to prepare a bootable Mojave installer on a USB flash drive.
First, make sure your drive has at least 16GB of space and is formatted using Disk Utility. Choose Mac OS Extended (Journaled) and a GUID Partition Map for the formatting.
Next, download the macOS Mojave installer from the Mac App Store.
You'll use Terminal commands to create the bootable installer. Open Terminal, and input the commands necessary to configure the USB flash drive as a bootable Mojave installer.
This setup is essential for you to downgrade from Catalina to Mojave efficiently. Follow these steps methodically to avoid any issues during the downgrade process.
Erase Macos Catalina
Before you proceed with erasing macOS Catalina, it's essential you back up your data to avoid irreversible loss.
You'll need to format your drive using Disk Utility, ensuring all contents are completely removed.
After this, you're set to reinstall macOS Mojave, which will restore your Mac to its previous state.
Backup Your Data
Make sure you back up your important data using Time Machine or an external storage device before erasing macOS Catalina to prevent any loss of information. This step is crucial as it guarantees that all your files, settings, and applications are preserved.
During the backup process, don't forget to save any passwords, license keys, and customized settings you might need once you downgrade to Mojave. Using Time Machine allows for a thorough backup, capturing every detail of your system setup, which can be fully restored if needed.
Alternatively, an external drive can serve as a secure storage solution for a detailed copy of your critical data. Remember, the goal is to safeguard your information before you erase Catalina.
Format Your Drive
Having completed your backup, you'll need to use Disk Utility to erase the startup disk, effectively removing macOS Catalina and readying your machine for Mojave.
To begin, restart your Mac and hold down Command + R to enter Recovery Mode. Once there, select Disk Utility from the utilities window. Choose your startup disk, typically named 'Macintosh HD,' from the sidebar.
Click the 'Erase' button, and make sure you select the appropriate format—APFS or Mac OS Extended (Journaled), depending on your system specifications for Mojave. Confirm your choice and allow Disk Utility to complete the formatting process.
This step is crucial for a clean installation and ensures a smooth transition without remnants of Catalina affecting performance.
Reinstall Mojave OS
Once you've formatted your startup disk, you'll need to install macOS Mojave using a bootable installer to completely erase macOS Catalina from your system.
To guarantee a smooth switch, here's a step-by-step guide:
- Back Up Your Data: Before you begin, make sure to back up all essential data to avoid any loss.
- Create a Bootable Installer: Use another Mac to download macOS Mojave from the App Store and create a bootable installer on a USB drive.
- Boot from the Installer: Restart your Mac, hold down the Option key, and select the bootable installer.
- Erase Catalina: Choose 'Disk Utility' from the utilities window, select your startup disk, and erase it.
- Reinstall Mojave: After erasing, close 'Disk Utility' and follow the prompts to reinstall macOS.
Install Macos Mojave
Before you attempt to install MacOS Mojave, it's important to verify your Mac meets the minimum system requirements listed above to guarantee compatibility.
Once you've confirmed your device's eligibility, you'll need to obtain the Mojave installation file from the Mac App Store.
Follow the detailed steps outlined for the installation process to successfully downgrade from Catalina to Mojave, paying close attention to each instruction to avoid common pitfalls.
Mojave Compatibility Check
To guarantee compatibility with macOS Mojave, first check your Mac model against the list provided on the official Apple website. Confirming that your Mac is compatible is essential, as Mojave includes various features that enhance your user experience.
Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Mac Model: Make sure your Mac is listed as compatible (e.g., MacBook Early 2015 or later).
- Memory Requirements: At least 2GB of RAM is necessary.
- Storage Space: You'll need a minimum of 12.5GB of free storage.
- Features: Mojave supports Dark Mode, Dynamic Desktop, and Stacks.
- Performance: Compatibility ensures these features perform smoothly, improving overall efficiency and organization of your workspace.
Mojave Installation Steps
After confirming that your Mac model is compatible with Mojave, you'll need to create a bootable installer using a USB flash drive with at least 16GB of space.
First, format the USB drive using Disk Utility to make sure it's ready for the Mojave installer. Next, download the macOS Mojave installation file and use Terminal to create the bootable installer.
Once your USB drive is prepared, restart your Mac and hold down the Option key right after the startup chime. This action lets you select the Mojave installer drive. Follow the on-screen prompts to erase your drive and install Mojave.
After installation, set up your preferences and configure settings to complete the setup process of macOS Mojave.
Restore System and Files
Make sure you've created a recent Time Machine backup to seamlessly restore your Mac to its pre-Catalina state using Mojave. This step is essential for a successful downgrade to Mojave, ensuring all your data is intact.
Here's what you need to do:
- Verify the Backup: Double-check that your Time Machine backup is recent and complete.
- Boot into Recovery Mode: Restart your Mac and hold Command-R to enter Recovery Mode.
- Erase Your Hard Drive: Use Disk Utility to erase the current Catalina system.
- Restore from Time Machine: Select 'Restore From Time Machine Backup' and choose your backup.
- Restart Your Mac: Once the restore is complete, restart your Mac.
Following these steps will help you revert to Mojave smoothly.