How to Restore an Apple Computer

All computers are subject to problems, and Apples are no exception. Luckily, Apple provided their users with multiple ways of safeguarding their data and recovering their computer in the event of a problem. It certainly helps if you have an external hard drive, such as the Apple Time Capsule. With an external hard drive you can easily back up important information and data using Apple's included Time Machine software. In some cases, you'll be able to reinstall the operating system and keep your personal files. Other times, you'll need to restore from a Time Machine backup.


Instructions
Restore Entire OS & Apple Software

1. Turn on your Apple computer and wait for OS X to completely load. Insert the OS X installation CD that came bundled with your Apple. If more than one was included, insert the first one.

2. Wait for a new window to appear, then locate "Install Mac OS X and Bundled Software" and double-click it.

3. Follow the instructions, which differ depending on your computer. If you have multiple installation discs, you'll be asked to insert the other discs in order. Stop when you get to the "Destination" window.

4. Determine whether you want to completely erase all user data and restore OS X to factory settings, or reinstall the OS and Apple software while keeping your personal data. To keep your data, select the destination you'd like to install OS X on, typically the same drive it's already on. To erase personal data, click "Options" in the "Select a destination" window and choose "Erase and Install."

5. Wait for your computer to alert you that it's finished installing the requested software. You may now exit setup and eject any discs.

Restoring with Apple Time Machine

6. Connect your external hard drive to your Apple. With most, this will require a USB cable, though the Apple Time Capsule is wireless. Turn on the device and insert the installation disc that came with your computer.

7. Wait for the computer to read the disc, as it will automatically launch the installer. Choose "Utilities" and "Restore System from Backup."

8. Hit "Continue" and choose the backup volume you'd like to restore. Follow any additional onscreen instructions to complete the restoration.

Tips & Warnings

• Create frequent backups using Time Machine. This will ensure that you never lose any data when your computer needs to be restored.

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