To downgrade, you need to backup (optional but recommended) → Erase macOS Ventura → reinstall macOS Monterey → restore Time Machine backup. You can reinstall macOS Monterey through internet recovery or using a bootable USB drive. Keep your Mac plugged in while the downgrading takes place.
Moreover, if you are trying the developer preview on your primary device, the bugs present may affect your device. Besides, it will take time for most third-party app developers to make their app Ventura compatible. So, it’s better to downgrade your Mac to the stable macOS Monterey version for now. But the question is, how to go back to macOS 12? Keep reading!
How to downgrade macOS using Time Machine Backup
If you had read our guide on how to download and install the macOS Ventura beta, I mentioned taking a backup before installing the beta version. So if you have a backup, this method is for you. Else, you can try the other method mentioned below. The process may take some time, so sit back, grab some coffee, or take a power nap. Note: When you restore from a backup, the current data in your Mac will be completely wiped. And if you don’t want to lose data, take a backup of those files.
Downgrade to macOS Monterey using macOS recovery
If you currently don’t have a Time Machine backup or the backup is not working while restoring, move on with the macOS recovery method to revert to macOS Monterey from macOS Ventura. Note: For this method, you must have a stable internet connection and a wired keyboard (or use the built-in keyboard). Wait until the installation process finishes. While the process takes place, don’t put your Mac to sleep or close the lid. Throughout the process, you will see your Mac restart several times, the progress bar will appear and disappear, or even the screen may go blank for some time. Don’t worry, as it’s part of the process, and wait until it’s completed. In the end, you will see a login screen which you usually see. It means you have successfully completed the process.
Reinstall macOS Monterey with a Bootable installer
Depending on your Mac, the steps to install macOS Monterey through a Bootable installer will differ. It is because the T2 chip in some Intel Macs will prevent the installation from external drives.
I. On Intel Mac
Apple introduced the T2 security chip with their Intel Macs to provide additional security. As part of that, it will prevent you from installing macOS Monterey through the bootable installer method. If you have an Apple Silicon Mac, go to the steps for Macs with Apple Silicon. You have now disabled external boot protection on your Intel Mac. Now, it’s time to install macOS Monterey on your Mac through the Bootable installer. For that: That’s it! Wait until the process is completed, and after the downgrading process, you will be greeted with the usual setup screen of macOS Monterey.
On Apple Silicon Mac
Wait until the process is completed. After that, you will see the macOS setup screen! Welcome back! While experiencing a new thing before others is indeed thrilling, it comes at a price. With macOS 13 Ventura, while enjoying the features, the bugs ruin the experience. Until the stable build is released, it’s better to stay with the stable macOS 12 Monterey. While you were using macOS Ventura, which feature did you like in it? Let me know in the comments below! Read more:
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