How to Rollback a Mac Update

Rolling back a Mac update returns your system to a previous macOS version when the new update causes problems or incompatibilities. This process requires a Time Machine backup or complete system reinstallation.

1. Check Time Machine backup availability. Open System Preferences > Time Machine and verify you have a backup from before the problematic update. Click "Browse Time Machine Backups" to confirm the backup contains your previous macOS version. Note the backup date for reference.
2. Boot into Recovery Mode. Shut down your Mac completely. Press and hold Command + R while pressing the power button until you see the Apple logo or spinning globe. Release the keys when the macOS Utilities window appears on screen.
3. Open Disk Utility and erase the drive. Select Disk Utility from the macOS Utilities window. Choose your startup disk from the sidebar, then click Erase. Name the drive and select "Mac OS Extended (Journaled)" or APFS format. Click Erase to wipe the drive completely.
4. Install the previous macOS version. Return to macOS Utilities and select "Reinstall macOS" or "Install macOS". The installer will download and install the macOS version that originally shipped with your Mac. Follow the on-screen prompts and select your erased drive as the destination.
5. Set up macOS and Migration Assistant. Complete the initial macOS setup process with your Apple ID and user account. When prompted, choose "From a Mac, Time Machine backup, or startup disk" in Migration Assistant. Select your Time Machine backup and choose what data to restore.
6. Verify system stability and disable automatic updates. Test your Mac's functionality thoroughly after restoration. Open System Preferences > Software Update and uncheck "Automatically keep my Mac up to date" to prevent unwanted updates. Monitor system performance for several days before re-enabling automatic updates.