Overview:

Performed a full clean installation of macOS on a 2020 MacBook Pro to eliminate previous data, restore system performance, and start with a fresh configuration. The goal was to have a clean, up-to-date macOS environment that could be used either as a daily driver or dedicated productivity device. After installation, I reconnected the device to the Apple ecosystem, ensuring full sync across all personal Apple hardware.

System Specs:

• Device: 2020 MacBook Pro

• Processor: Intel Core i7

• Memory: 32GB RAM

• Storage: 1TB SSD

• macOS Version Reinstalled: Latest version available via Recovery, updated to macOS Sequoia 15.4

Steps Performed:

1. Pre-Installation Prep

• Signed out of Apple ID and disabled Find My Mac to avoid iCloud lock or restore issues.

• Verified a stable Wi-Fi connection for use with Internet Recovery.

• Backed up any final essential files externally (even though the goal was a clean slate).

2. Entered macOS Recovery & Wiped the Drive

• Booted into macOS Recovery Mode using Command + R.

• Opened Disk Utility and formatted the internal SSD as:

• APFS (file system)

• GUID Partition Map (partition scheme)

• This ensured that the drive was fully clean and properly prepared for a fresh install.

3. Reinstalled macOS

• Selected Reinstall macOS from the Recovery Utilities menu.

• Used Internet Recovery to download and install the latest supported version.

• Allowed install to complete and boot into the Setup Assistant.

4. Performed Initial System Setup

• Created a local user account and set a strong password.

• Skipped Apple ID sign-in initially to prevent iCloud sync until the OS was fully updated.

• Applied basic settings:

• Enabled Dark Mode

• Configured trackpad (tap-to-click, natural scrolling)

• Selected language and keyboard input preferences

5. Updated to macOS Sequoia 15.4

• Opened System Settings > Software Update.

• Downloaded and installed macOS Sequoia 15.4, the latest release at the time.

• Rebooted and confirmed the system was stable and fully updated.

6. Reconnected to Apple Ecosystem

• Signed back into Apple ID and re-enabled Find My Mac.

• Verified seamless sync with:

• iPhone 13

• iPhone 15

• iPad

• Apple Watch

• Confirmed the following services were fully functional:

• iMessage and FaceTime

• iCloud Drive

• Continuity features like Handoff, Universal Clipboard, and AirDrop

• Find My location services

Result:

• The MacBook Pro was returned to a clean, fully updated state with macOS Sequoia 15.4.

• All personal Apple devices were successfully reconnected and syncing through iCloud.

• The device is now clean, stable, and ready for use as a productivity or development workstation, with no lingering legacy configurations or files.