Mac DFU

Caution

This process will erase your Mac’s drive. Ensure you have an adequate backup of all important data before proceeding.

Prerequisites

• A second Mac running macOS 10.15.6 or newer
• Active Apple ID and App Store access
• Stable broadband internet connection
• 32GB free storage space for download and extraction
• Both computers should be fully charged
• Compatible connection:
  • USB-C to USB-C cable (Apple charging cable works fine)
  • USB-C to USB-A cable
  • Official Apple Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 adapter with cable

Download Apple Configurator

1. Download Apple Configurator from the App Store
2. Run Apple Configurator

{: .warning .warning-icon }

While Finder can sometimes be used for restoration, Apple Configurator is more reliable and recommended.

Apple Silicon MacBook Instructions

1. Ensure the MacBook is powered off

2. Connect cable:

   • Left-most USB-C port on target Mac (closest to screen)

   • Any available port on host Mac

     

3. Enter DFU mode:

   • Press and hold: Power + Right Shift + Left Control + Left Option

   • Hold all keys for 10 seconds

   • Release all except Power button

   • Continue holding Power for 8 more seconds (18 total)

   • Look for DFU icon in Apple Configurator

     

Apple Silicon Desktop Instructions

1. Disconnect power from the Mac

2. Connect cable:

   • Mac Mini: Port closest to ethernet port
   • iMac: Port closest to power connector

3. Enter DFU mode:

   • Press and hold power button
   • While holding button, connect power cable
   • Continue holding for 3-5 seconds
   • Look for DFU icon in Apple Configurator

Intel T2 MacBook Instructions

1. Ensure MacBook is powered off

2. Connect cable:

   • Right-most USB-C port on target Mac (front port on left side)

   • Any available port on host Mac

     

3. Enter DFU mode:

   • Press Power button for 1 second

   • While still holding Power, immediately add:

     • Right Shift
     • Left Control
     • Left Option

   • Hold all keys for 8 seconds total

   • Look for DFU icon in Apple Configurator

     

Intel T2 Desktop Instructions

1. Disconnect power from the Mac

2. Connect cable:

   • Mac Mini: Port next to HDMI port
   • iMac/iMac Pro: Port next to ethernet port
   • Mac Pro: Port farthest from power button

3. Enter DFU mode:

   • Press and hold power button
   • While holding button, connect power cable
   • Continue holding for 3-5 seconds
   • Look for DFU icon in Apple Configurator

Alternative Method: DFU Blaster

If keyboard commands aren’t working:

1. Visit https://twocanoes.com/products/mac/dfu-blaster/
2. Click “Download Free Trial”
3. Install and run the app
4. Follow on-screen instructions to enter DFU mode

Caution

DFU Blaster is a third-party tool. Review its licensing terms before use.

Restore Process

Caution

Unplugging the cable during restoration will result in data loss and may leave your computer in an unrecoverable state.

1. Once in DFU mode, open Apple Configurator

2. For Restore:

   • Right-click the DFU icon
   • Select Advanced > Restore
   • Confirm the warning
   • Wait for download and installation (15-45 minutes)

3. Mac will automatically restart when complete

Success

When restoration completes successfully, your Mac should turn on and display the Hello screen.

Information

If having trouble entering DFU mode:

• Try multiple attempts with precise timing
• Ensure using correct ports
• Verify cable supports data transfer
• If using adapters, try different connection methods
• Try the alternative DFU Blaster method above

Common Issues

If restore fails, check:

• Apple Configurator is on latest version
• Host Mac has at least 32GB free storage
• Host Mac has stable internet connection
• Using correct USB-C ports
• Cable supports both power and data
• Host and target Mac are on same OS version (Intel T2 Macs only)
• Any adapters are properly connected and supported