Whether you need to create a or run it in a virtual machine Here's where to download Sierra 10.12 (and older OS Xs)
Select the volume using the arrow keys and press Enter .
Before downloading, ensure your machine can handle the OS. While Sierra is relatively lightweight, it requires a 64-bit Intel Mac. Late 2009 or later MacBook Pro: Mid 2010 or later MacBook Air: Late 2010 or later iMac: Late 2009 or later Mac Mini: Mid 2010 or later Mac Pro: Mid 2010 or later RAM: 2GB minimum (4GB+ recommended) Storage: 8GB free space How to Install macOS Sierra 10.12
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Before installing any operating system, use Time Machine to back up your current data.
Method B: Create a Bootable USB Installer (Recommended for Clean Installs) and mount it. Run the .pkg to put the installer in Applications . Plug in a USB drive (16GB+ recommended).
The "Install macOS Sierra" app sitting inside your /Applications folder. Step 1: Format Your USB Flash Drive Insert your USB drive into your Mac. Open (Applications > Utilities). Whether you need to create a or run
To download macOS Sierra 10.12, you'll need to get the DMG file from a trusted source. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Sometimes old installers fail because the "security certificate" has expired. If you get an error, try disconnecting from the internet and setting your system date to via Terminal ( date 0101010117
How to install macOS on an unsupported Mac: Updated for 2026 Late 2009 or later MacBook Pro: Mid 2010
However, a crucial nuance is that Apple no longer provides direct, publicly visible links to the Sierra .dmg on its main website. The official, modern method for obtaining old operating systems is via the Mac App Store, but this only works if you've previously "purchased" (downloaded for free) the software with your Apple ID. Therefore, this guide will focus on legitimate and safe alternatives for obtaining the installer, which is the first step to creating a bootable USB drive.
How to Download and Install macOS Sierra 10.12 (DMG File) If you are looking to revive an older Mac or need a clean installer for compatibility reasons, downloading the macOS Sierra 10.12 DMG
You can often find older macOS versions through specific App Store links that don't always appear in standard searches.
sudo /Applications/Install\ macOS\ Sierra.app/Contents/Resources/createinstallmedia --volume /Volumes/SierraUSB --applicationpath /Applications/Install\ macOS\ Sierra.app Use code with caution.