How to Fix ‘Recovery Server Could Not Be Contacted’ on macOS

MacOS is a powerful operating system that offers a smooth and seamless user experience. However, like any other software, it is not immune to errors. One such error is the ‘Recovery Server Could Not Be Contacted’ message that can be frustrating and can disrupt your work. This error usually occurs when attempting to reinstall macOS or when trying to install a software update. But don't worry, in this article, we will guide you on how to fix this error and get your Mac back up and running in no time.

1. Check Your Internet Connection

The first and most crucial step in resolving this error is to ensure that your internet connection is stable and functional. A weak or unstable internet connection can cause the ‘Recovery Server Could Not Be Contacted’ error to appear. To check your internet connection, try accessing other websites or performing a speed test. If your internet connection is weak or unstable, try switching to a different network or resetting your router.

2. Check Your Date and Time Settings

Now in How to Fix ‘Recovery Server Could Not Be Contacted’ on macOS, Another common cause for this error is incorrect date and time settings on your Mac. This can happen due to a dead CMOS battery or when you have changed the date and time manually. To fix this, go to System Preferences > Date & Time and make sure the ‘Set date and time automatically’ option is checked. If it is already checked, uncheck it, wait for a few seconds, and then check it again. This should sync your date and time with the Apple servers and resolve the error.

3. Use Terminal Commands to Update macOS

If the above steps do not resolve the error, you can try using Terminal commands to update your macOS. Open the Terminal app and enter the command ‘softwareupdate -l’ to see a list of available updates. If there are any updates, enter the command ‘softwareupdate -i [version number]’ to install a specific version. This method is useful if you are unable to update your macOS through the App Store.

4. Reinstall macOS from a Bootable USB Drive

If you are still unable to fix the error, you can try reinstalling macOS from a bootable USB drive. This method is especially useful if you are unable to access the Mac App Store or if your internet connection is not stable. To create a bootable USB drive, first, format it to FAT32 using the Disk Utility app. Then, download the appropriate macOS version file from the Apple website and use a tool like DiskMaker X to create a bootable USB installer. Once the USB drive is ready, reboot your Mac and hold down the Option key to choose the USB drive as the startup disk. From there, select ‘Install macOS’ and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the reinstallation process.

5. Perform a Clean Install of macOS

If none of the above methods work, you can consider erasing your disk and performing a clean install of macOS. This will completely wipe your hard drive and install a fresh copy of macOS. To do this, restart your Mac and hold down the Command and R keys until the Apple logo appears. This will boot your Mac into Recovery mode. From there, select ‘Disk Utility’ and erase your disk. Once the disk is erased, select ‘Reinstall macOS’ and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation process.

In conclusion about How to Fix ‘Recovery Server Could Not Be Contacted’ on macOS, the ‘Recovery Server Could Not Be Contacted’ error on macOS can be frustrating, but it can be easily resolved by following the steps mentioned above. Make sure to check your internet connection, date and time settings, and use Terminal commands to update your macOS. If all else fails, try reinstalling macOS from a bootable USB drive or performing a clean install. With these solutions, you should be able to fix the error and get your Mac back up and running in no time.