A Comprehensive Guide to Downloading and Installing macOS Big Sur (Version 11)

Although macOS 13 Ventura is the most recent Mac operating system, there may be instances when you still need to download macOS Big Sur for a clean installation. Follow this guide to download the macOS Big Sur installer without compromising your data.

macOS Big Sur Overview (New Features & System Requirements)

< a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MacOS_Big_Sur" target="_blank">macOS Big Sur< /a> was initially unveiled at Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference in June 2020 and subsequently launched to the general public on November 12, 2020. It is offered as a complimentary update to all macOS Catalina users.

macOS Big Sur New Features 1. Revamped Design: macOS Big Sur introduces a fresh, modern design with refined icons, a more translucent menu bar, and a cleaner overall look that brings the operating system closer to iOS and iPadOS. 2. Redesigned Control Center: Inspired by iOS, macOS Big Sur now includes a Control Center, providing quick access to frequently used settings like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, brightness, and volume directly from the top of the screen. 3. Safari Updates: - Enhanced Privacy: Safari now offers stronger privacy features, including improved tracking prevention and a Privacy Report that shows how Safari blocks trackers across the web. - Customizable Start Page: Users can personalize their Safari experience with a customizable start page, featuring different themes and the ability to add favorite websites. - Improved Performance: Safari is now faster and more energy-efficient, boasting faster page loading times and extended battery life. 4. Messages Redesign: The Messages app has been overhauled with a more modern interface, allowing for pinning important conversations, inline replies, and a new search feature to quickly find specific messages or content within conversations. 5. Maps App Enhancements: The Maps app gets a significant update with a new look, comprehensive guides for popular locations, curated collections, and the ability to create and share your own maps with custom points of interest. 6. Privacy Enhancements in System Preferences: A dedicated Privacy & Security section provides more control over app permissions, such as requiring apps to request permission before accessing the microphone or camera. 7. Continuity Camera Improvements: With Continuity Camera, you can use your iPhone as a webcam for your Mac, with new features like Background blur and document scanning. 8. Group FaceTime Enhancements: Group FaceTime calls now support spatial audio, which makes each participant's voice sound like it's coming from their position on the screen, creating a more natural conversation experience. 9. Translate App: Apple introduced a new standalone Translate app for translating conversations in real-time across 11 languages. 10. Catalyst Integration: Apps designed for iPad can now be easily adapted for macOS, bringing a wider range of iOS apps to the Mac ecosystem. 11. macOS and iOS Interoperability: Improved integration between macOS Big Sur and iOS/iPadOS devices, allowing for seamless continuity features like Handoff, AirDrop, and sharing content across devices. 12. M1 Chip Support: macOS Big Sur is optimized to take full advantage of the power and efficiency of Apple's M1 chip, delivering faster performance and longer battery life on compatible Macs.

It includes numerous new features and enhancements, such as a redesigned macOS interface, updated Messages and Maps apps, and much more. Here's a summary of the key new features in macOS Big Sur.

The macOS interface: The Menu bar has received refreshed icons, and the Dock has been simplified. The redesign encompasses updated application icons and a fresh color palette.

Messages: It has been refreshed with new functionalities, such as Memoji and Message Effects support. The app now also features the ability to pin your favorite conversations at the top of your chat list.

The Maps: The app includes new features, such as indoor maps of select locations, turn-by-turn directions, and traffic conditions.

Apple silicon support: macOS Big Sur also introduces support for the new Apple Silicon chips, which power the latest Mac computers.

macOS Big Sur System Requirements To ensure a smooth and efficient experience with macOS Big Sur, your Mac must meet the following system requirements: 1. **Mac models**: macOS Big Sur is compatible with the following Mac models. If your Mac is not on this list, it may not be supported for the update: - MacBook (2015 and later) - MacBook Air (2013 and later) - MacBook Pro (2013 and later) - Mac mini (2014 and later) - iMac (2014 and later) - iMac Pro (2017 and later) - Mac Pro (2013 and later) 2. **Operating System**: Your current macOS version should be at least macOS Catalina (10.15) or macOS Mojave (10.14). 3. **Disk Space**: You will need at least 35.5 GB of free disk space to install macOS Big Sur. It's recommended to have more available space for additional apps and data. 4. **Memory (RAM)**: Your Mac should have a minimum of 4GB of RAM for optimal performance. More RAM can improve the overall experience, especially if you use resource-intensive applications. 5. **Processor**: Your Mac should have an Intel processor or an Apple M1 chip for compatibility with macOS Big Sur. 6. **Software Compatibility**: Some older apps might not be compatible with macOS Big Sur. Make sure to check for updates or alternatives before upgrading. 7. **Backup**: Prior to updating, it's essential to back up your important data using Time Machine or another reliable backup method. 8. **Battery Life**: For laptops, ensure that your battery has at least 50% charge or connect your device to a power source during the installation process. 9. **Internet Connection**: A stable internet connection is required for downloading the update from the App Store. If your Mac meets these requirements, you can proceed with installing macOS Big Sur through the Software Update feature in System Preferences.

macOS Big Sur introduces numerous new features and enhancements and requires specific hardware requirements to function. Here are the macOS Big Sur system requirements:

• iMac (Mid 2014 or later)
• iMac Pro
• MacBook (Early 2015 or later)
• MacBook Air (Mid 2013 or later)
• MacBook Pro (Late 2013 or later)
• Mac Mini (Late 2014 or later)
• Mac Pro (Late 2013 or later)
• Developer Transition Kit (up to Big Sur 11.3 beta 2 only[12])

If your Mac meets the aforementioned requirements, you're all set to upgrade to macOS Big Sur. If not, you might consider buying a new Mac that satisfies the minimum system requirements for macOS Big Sur.

macOS 11 Big Sur Download Guide (Step-by-Step)

macOS Big Sur is one of Apple's most transformative operating systems for its computers. If your Mac is compatible, you can upgrade to it for free. Here's how:

Method 1: Download macOS Big Sur from the App Store

Step 1. Head over to the macOS Big Sur download page and download the macOS Big Sur installer.

Step 2. Click the "Get" button next to macOS Big Sur, and then follow the prompts to start downloading the software to your computer.

Method 2: Download macOS Big Sur DMG/ISO/PKG File

If you wish to download macOS Big Sur without using the App Store, you can obtain the macOS Big Sur DMG/ISO/PKG files directly:

• Download macOS Big Sur DMG (11.6.7)
• Download macOS Big Sur ISO (11.6.8)
• Download macOS Big Sur PKG (11.6.6)

How to Install macOS 11 Big Sur

Once macOS Big Sur finishes downloading, you'll be prompted to restart your computer. Click "Restart" to conclude the installation process. If you wish to perform a clean install of macOS Big Sur, please follow these steps:

Step 1. Create a bootable USB installer This is the first step in installing an operating system or software from a USB drive. To do this, you'll need a USB flash drive with enough storage and the appropriate software to create the bootable USB. Here's a general guide: 1. **Download the ISO image**: Start by downloading the ISO file of the operating system or software you want to install. This could be macOS, Windows, Linux, or any other distribution. 2. **Get a USB drive**: Ensure your USB drive has at least 8GB of space, although the exact size needed may vary depending on the operating system. 3. **Choose a tool**: You'll need a tool to create the bootable USB installer. For Windows, you can use Microsoft's Media Creation Tool for Windows or Rufus. On macOS, you can use Disk Utility. For Linux, tools like Etcher or UNetbootin can be used. 4. **Insert the USB drive**: Plug the USB drive into your computer's USB port. 5. **Format the USB drive**: In the tool you've chosen, select your USB drive from the list of available drives. Make sure you choose the correct drive, as formatting will erase all data on it. Format it with the appropriate file system (e.g., FAT32 for multi-system compatibility or HFS+ for macOS). 6. **Write the ISO to the USB**: Select the downloaded ISO file and instruct the tool to write it to the USB drive. This process may take some time. 7. **Verify the USB installer**: Once completed, verify that the USB installer was created correctly by checking its contents or attempting to boot from it on a different computer. 8. **Boot from the USB**: Now, restart your target computer and enter the BIOS or UEFI settings by pressing the relevant key (usually F2, F10, F12, or Delete). Set the boot order to prioritize USB devices, save the changes, and exit. Your computer should now boot from the USB drive. 9. **Install the operating system**: Follow the on-screen instructions to install the desired operating system or software. Remember, the specific steps might differ slightly based on the tool and operating system you're using, but this provides a general outline of the process.

1. Access Disk Utility on your Mac and erase the internal drive 2. Open Terminal and enter the following command:

sudo /Applications/Install\ macOS\ Big\ Sur.app/Contents/Resources/createinstallmedia --volume /Volumes/Untitled This command in English is: sudo /Applications/Install macOS Big Sur.app/Contents/Resources/createinstallmedia --volume /Volumes/Untitled

Step 2. Erase your startup drive

1. Shut down your Mac and press and hold Command + R to enter Recovery Mode.
2. Open Disk Utility and select your main startup drive.
3. Click on "Erase" from the menu and confirm your action.

Step 3: Perform a clean installation of macOS 11 Big Sur

1. Restart your computer and hold down the Option key. 2. Return to the initial Disk Utility screen. 3. Select the macOS installation from the connected USB drive. 4. Click "Install macOS" to confirm your installation.

Upon completing these steps, macOS Big Sur will be successfully installed on your computer! If you encounter any issues, refer to this macOS Big Sur installation video for assistance.

1. 02:27 Create a bootable installer
2. 02:58 Check your Applications folder
3. 03:00 Go to Disk Utility
4. 03:33 Mount the USB in Terminal
5. 04:33 Erase your startup drive
6. 04:55 Perform a clean install of macOS Big Sur from the USB

Bonus Tip: Recover macOS 11 Big Sur Data After System Reinstall In case you have reinstalled macOS Big Sur and need to recover your data, here's a helpful guide: 1. **Backup Your Device**: Before attempting any recovery, it's crucial to back up your current system using Time Machine or another reliable backup method. This ensures that you don't lose any newly added data during the recovery process. 2. **Boot in Recovery Mode**: Restart your Mac and hold down Command + R keys immediately after hearing the startup sound. This will boot your Mac into Recovery Mode. 3. **Open Disk Utility**: In Recovery Mode, select "Utilities" from the top menu bar, then choose "Disk Utility." This tool allows you to check and repair your drives. 4. **Find Your Lost Data**: If your data was not erased during the reinstall, it might still be present on your hard drive. Look for the previous macOS installation or a separate data partition. 5. **Use Data Recovery Software**: If the data is not accessible, you can use a dedicated data recovery software like Disk Drill, tools Data Recovery Wizard, or Stellar Data Recovery. Download and install the software on an external drive or another Mac (if necessary), then run the scan to locate your lost files. 6. **Preview and Recover Files**: Once the scan is complete, preview the found files, and select the ones you wish to recover. Save them to a different location than where they were originally stored to avoid overwriting any data. 7. **Restore from Time Machine Backup**: If you have a backup, connect your Time Machine drive and choose "Restore from Time Machine Backup" from the Utilities menu. Follow the on-screen instructions to select a backup point and restore your data. Remember, data recovery isn't always guaranteed, so it's best to maintain regular backups to prevent data loss in the first place.

As the installation procedure indicates, it's necessary to erase the disk prior to a clean install. Consequently, without a backup, you run the risk of losing data from macOS. Furthermore, without Mac data recovery software, you won't be able to retrieve deleted files on your Mac. The Data Recovery Wizard for Mac is a robust tool that can assist you in recovering lost data after updating to macOS Ventura.

It can recover files from any type of storage device, including hard drives, external drives, and memory cards. In addition, it can recover unsaved Word documents on a Mac or other files.

注意:您可以通过首先点击左侧的"磁盘备份"来创建Mac的备份。软件将从备份映像中恢复已删除的文件。这可以防止对磁盘和数据造成进一步损坏，使其更安全可靠。

Step 1. Choose the location and scan

1. Launch the "Data Recovery Wizard for Mac" application. 2. Select the disk from which you have lost your data. 3. Click on "Search for lost files" to initiate the scanning process.

Step 2. Filter and preview lost files

Following the scan, utilize the file format filter located on the left or upper-right corner to locate the deleted files you require.

Step 3. Recover Lost Data or Files

You can double-click a file to preview its contents, or select multiple files to recover them all at once. Click "Recover" to restore the lost data to a local or cloud storage location.

Conclusion

macOS Big Sur is a free update that introduces numerous new features and enhancements to the macOS operating system. To download it, open the App Store on your Mac and click the "Get" button. The update will then download and install automatically. Upon completion of the installation, your Mac will prompt you to restart. After restarting your device, you should be running macOS Big Sur.

If you lost data during the download and install process, you can resort to using MacBook data recovery software to retrieve lost data.

macOS 11 Download FAQs Frequently Asked Questions About Downloading macOS 11 1. What is macOS 11 called? macOS 11 is also known as macOS Big Sur. 2. Can I download macOS 11 for free? Yes, macOS 11 is available as a free update from the Mac App Store. 3. Which Mac models are compatible with macOS 11? macOS 11 supports most Mac models released in 2013 or later, including MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, Mac Mini, and Mac Pro. It's essential to check Apple's official system requirements for the complete list. 4. How do I download macOS 11? To download macOS 11, open the App Store on your Mac, click on the "Updates" tab, and look for the macOS Big Sur update. Click "Get" or "Update" to start the download and installation process. 5. How much storage space does macOS 11 require? macOS 11 requires at least 35.5 GB of free disk space for the installation. Make sure you have enough space before starting the download. 6. Will I lose my data during the upgrade to macOS 11? Typically, upgrading to a new version of macOS won't erase your data. However, it's always recommended to back up your important files using Time Machine or another reliable backup method before updating. 7. How long does the macOS 11 download take? The download time depends on your internet speed. It can range from a few minutes to several hours. Be patient and ensure a stable connection during the process. 8. Can I downgrade from macOS 11 to an earlier version? Yes, but only if you have a bootable backup of an earlier macOS version or created a system restore point before installing macOS 11. Downgrading without a backup may be difficult. 9. When was macOS 11 released? macOS 11 Big Sur was officially released in November 2020. 10. Are there any notable features in macOS 11? macOS 11 introduces several new features, such as a redesigned user interface, improved Safari, updated Messages app, Control Center, and enhanced privacy controls.

Here are some questions related to downloading and installing macOS. Reading through the questions below may provide you with additional assistance.

< strong >1. Can I download macOS Big Sur for free?< / strong > Yes, you can download macOS Big Sur for free from the Mac App Store. Apple provides free software updates for their operating systems, including macOS. To download it, simply open the App Store on your Mac, click on the "Updates" tab, and then find and select the macOS Big Sur update. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.

Yes, the full release version of macOS Big Sur is now available for free download on all compatible Macs.

2. My Mac won't restart after updating to Big Sur. How do I fix this issue?

To fix "Mac won't restart after update":

• Force Restart Mac
• Reset the NVRAM
• Boot Your Mac in Safe Mode...

3. How to download and install macOS Catalina?

Download macOS Catalina:

• Ensure that your Mac is compatible with macOS 10.15 Catalina.
• Back up your Mac using Time Machine or an alternative backup method.
• Download the macOS 10.15 Catalina installer from the Mac App Store.

4. Is macOS Big Sur better than Monterey?

Monterey vs. Big Sur: If you're seeking the optimal macOS for your device, Monterey might be the better option.