Unable to factory reset Mac mini running macOS 10.8.5

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Unable to factory reset Mac mini running macOS 10.8.5

i would like to factory reset this mac mini, but all things i see on line do not work. I tried to hold the power button down, does nothing but boot to sign in. Tried holding down the Command +r and the Command +s, does nothing but boot into sign in screen. Also, can't seem to find any type of utility to do this. Thanks

any ideas?

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: mac mini version 10.8.5

Posted on Sep 25, 2025 3:16 PM

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Answer 1

6x6

Level 6

19,071 points

Sep 25, 2025 4:46 PM in response to nylocksmith

You have to hold the command + R keys until you see the recovery mode screen. This can take several minutes, especially on older Macs.

You may find this article of interest if you intend to part with your Mac: What to do before you sell, give away, trade in, or recycle your Mac - Apple Support.

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