I keep trying to reinstall mac os. I have done command r and tried installing. It says cant reach server. I turned off and tired again with option command r and says error 8. What can i do?

I keep trying to reinstall mac os. I have done command r and tried installing. It says cant reach server. I turned off and tired again with option command r and says error 8. What can i do?

Macbook air 2017

Posted on Aug 13, 2023 08:24 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Aug 13, 2023 08:46 PM

Encountering errors or issues when trying to reinstall macOS can be frustrating, but there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem:


1. Check Internet Connection: The "Can't reach server" error could be related to your internet connection. Make sure you're connected to a stable and reliable network before attempting to reinstall macOS.


2. Check Date and Time Settings: Incorrect date and time settings can sometimes cause errors during the installation process. Ensure that your Mac's date and time settings are accurate.


3. Try a Different Wi-Fi Network: If you're encountering server-related errors, trying a different Wi-Fi network might help. Sometimes network restrictions or firewalls can prevent proper communication with Apple's servers.


4. Reset NVRAM/PRAM: Resetting the NVRAM (non-volatile random-access memory) or PRAM (parameter random-access memory) can sometimes resolve boot-related issues. To do this, restart your MacBook and immediately hold down the Option, Command, P, and R keys. Keep holding until you hear the startup chime for the second time, then release the keys.


5. Use a Bootable Installer: If you're still having trouble with the internet recovery method, you can create a bootable USB installer for macOS. This involves using another Mac or accessing a public computer to create a bootable installer on a USB drive. You can find instructions on how to create a bootable installer on Apple's official support website.

Create a bootable installer for macOS - Apple Support



Additionally, since you mentioned encountering "error 8," it's important to note that specific error codes can provide more insight into the problem. If you're able to provide the exact error code or message you're receiving, it might help in identifying the underlying issue and finding a solution.


Always make sure to back up your important data before attempting any troubleshooting steps that involve reinstalling macOS, as it can result in data loss.


3 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Aug 13, 2023 08:46 PM in response to Nevee12

Encountering errors or issues when trying to reinstall macOS can be frustrating, but there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem:


1. Check Internet Connection: The "Can't reach server" error could be related to your internet connection. Make sure you're connected to a stable and reliable network before attempting to reinstall macOS.


2. Check Date and Time Settings: Incorrect date and time settings can sometimes cause errors during the installation process. Ensure that your Mac's date and time settings are accurate.


3. Try a Different Wi-Fi Network: If you're encountering server-related errors, trying a different Wi-Fi network might help. Sometimes network restrictions or firewalls can prevent proper communication with Apple's servers.


4. Reset NVRAM/PRAM: Resetting the NVRAM (non-volatile random-access memory) or PRAM (parameter random-access memory) can sometimes resolve boot-related issues. To do this, restart your MacBook and immediately hold down the Option, Command, P, and R keys. Keep holding until you hear the startup chime for the second time, then release the keys.


5. Use a Bootable Installer: If you're still having trouble with the internet recovery method, you can create a bootable USB installer for macOS. This involves using another Mac or accessing a public computer to create a bootable installer on a USB drive. You can find instructions on how to create a bootable installer on Apple's official support website.

Create a bootable installer for macOS - Apple Support



Additionally, since you mentioned encountering "error 8," it's important to note that specific error codes can provide more insight into the problem. If you're able to provide the exact error code or message you're receiving, it might help in identifying the underlying issue and finding a solution.


Always make sure to back up your important data before attempting any troubleshooting steps that involve reinstalling macOS, as it can result in data loss.


Aug 13, 2023 08:37 PM in response to Nevee12

Nevee12 Said:

"I keep trying to reinstall mac os. I have done command r and tried installing. It says cant reach server. I turned off and tired again with option command r and says error 8. What can i do? Macbook air 2017"

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Troubleshooting macOS Reinstall:

There is a problem accessing Apple's servers. So, are you certain you are connected to the Internet?

To check...

  1. Go to: Utilities menu
  2. Select: Terminal
  3. Use this Command: ping google.com
  4. See if the results are similar to: read 64 bytes from 142.250.81.238: icmp_seq=6 ttl=56 time=25.181 ms

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I keep trying to reinstall mac os. I have done command r and tried installing. It says cant reach server. I turned off and tired again with option command r and says error 8. What can i do?

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