Final answer:
To factory reset macOS Catalina version 10.15.7, back up your data and boot into Recovery mode. Use Disk Utility to erase the hard drive and then choose 'Reinstall macOS' in Recovery mode to complete the factory reset process.
Step-by-step explanation:
To factory reset macOS Catalina version 10.15.7, you will need to follow these steps:
- First, backup any important data you have on your Mac to ensure no loss of personal files.
- Restart your Mac and immediately press and hold the Command (⌘) and R keys to enter macOS Recovery mode.
- When in Recovery mode, use Disk Utility to erase your hard drive. Select your main hard drive (typically named 'Macintosh HD') and click on 'Erase'. Make sure to choose APFS or Mac OS Extended (Journaled) format and GUID Partition Map for the scheme.
- Once the erase process is done, exit Disk Utility to return to the Recovery mode window.
- Select 'Reinstall macOS' and follow the on-screen prompts to reinstall macOS Catalina on your Mac.
- After the reinstallation is complete, your Mac will restart and display the setup assistant, prompting you to set up your Mac as if it were new.
By following these steps, you will have successfully factory reset your Mac running macOS Catalina.