Fixing "The Recovery Server Could Not Be Contacted" High Sierra

10 min read 11-15- 2024

The "Recovery Server Could Not Be Contacted" error is a common issue faced by users of macOS High Sierra. This error can be frustrating, especially if you need to restore or reinstall your operating system. In this article, we will explore the causes of this error, various methods to fix it, and some essential tips to prevent it from occurring in the future.

Understanding the Error

Before diving into the fixes, it's important to understand what causes the "Recovery Server Could Not Be Contacted" error. This issue usually arises when your Mac is unable to connect to Apple's recovery servers. The reasons for this can vary, including network issues, outdated software, or problems with your Mac’s hardware.

Common Causes of the Error

Network Connection Issues 🌐: If your internet connection is unstable or you are not connected to Wi-Fi, your Mac will be unable to access the recovery server.
Apple Server Problems 🍏: Sometimes, Apple's recovery servers may be down for maintenance or experiencing issues.
Outdated macOS Version 📅: If you are running an outdated version of macOS High Sierra, it might be incompatible with the current recovery server.
Firewall or Security Software 🔒: Security settings may block your Mac from connecting to the recovery server.
Corrupted System Files ⚠️: If system files related to recovery are corrupted, it may prevent the system from accessing the server.

Troubleshooting Steps to Fix the Error

Now that we know the common causes of the error, let's discuss several methods to troubleshoot and resolve the issue.

1. Check Your Internet Connection

The first step is to ensure that your Mac is connected to the internet:

Wi-Fi Connection: Make sure you are connected to a stable Wi-Fi network.
Ethernet Connection: If possible, connect your Mac to the router using an Ethernet cable for a more stable connection.
Network Speed: Test the speed of your internet connection. If it's slow, try resetting your router.

2. Restart Your Mac

A simple restart can often fix many software-related issues. Here’s how to do it:

Click on the Apple logo in the upper left corner of the screen.
Select "Restart" from the drop-down menu.
Once your Mac reboots, try accessing Recovery Mode again.

3. Use Safe Mode

Booting into Safe Mode can help eliminate issues caused by third-party software.

Restart your Mac and hold down the Shift key immediately after you hear the startup sound.
Release the Shift key once you see the Apple logo.
Once in Safe Mode, try accessing Recovery Mode.

4. Set Date and Time

An incorrect date and time can also lead to connectivity issues. To check and set it:

Open Terminal from the Utilities menu in Recovery Mode.
Type the command: date
If the date and time are incorrect, set them by typing:
```
date mmddHHMMYY
```
Replace mmddHHMMYY with the correct month, day, hour (in 24-hour format), minute, and year.

5. Disable Firewall and Security Software

Sometimes, firewalls or security software can block the connection. To disable the firewall:

Go to System Preferences.
Click on Security & Privacy.
Select the Firewall tab.
Click on Turn Off Firewall.

If you are using any third-party security software, temporarily disable it and check if you can connect to the recovery server.

6. Update macOS

If you can access your Mac normally, consider updating your system:

Open System Preferences.
Click on Software Update.
Install any available updates.

Keeping your macOS updated can resolve compatibility issues with Apple's servers.

7. Use Internet Recovery Mode

If you cannot access the standard Recovery Mode, try using Internet Recovery Mode:

Restart your Mac.
Immediately hold down Command (⌘) + Option (⌥) + R.
Keep holding until you see the spinning globe.

Internet Recovery Mode downloads the necessary recovery tools from Apple's servers directly, which might bypass the issue you are facing.

8. Reset NVRAM/PRAM

Resetting the NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random Access Memory) can sometimes solve strange issues. Here’s how:

Turn off your Mac.
Turn it on and immediately hold down the Command (⌘) + Option (⌥) + P + R keys.
Keep holding the keys for about 20 seconds or until you hear the startup sound again.

9. Check for Apple Server Status

Sometimes, the problem isn't on your end. Check Apple’s system status page to see if there are any outages or maintenance on their servers.

10. Reinstall macOS Using Bootable USB Drive

If none of the above methods work, you may need to create a bootable USB drive to reinstall macOS.

On another Mac, download macOS High Sierra from the App Store.
Create a bootable USB drive using the Disk Utility.
Connect the USB drive to the troubled Mac.
Restart the Mac and hold down the Option (⌥) key to select the USB drive as the boot disk.

This method allows you to bypass the recovery server issue altogether.

Important Notes

Always backup your data before attempting major changes or installations. Use Time Machine or any other backup method you prefer.

Be cautious while using Terminal commands. Typing the wrong command can lead to further issues.

Preventing the Error in the Future

While it can be difficult to completely eliminate the possibility of encountering this error again, there are steps you can take to reduce the likelihood:

Regular Software Updates: Always keep your macOS updated to avoid compatibility issues.
Stable Internet Connection: Ensure you have a reliable internet connection when attempting system updates or recovery.
Backup Your Data: Regular backups can save you from potential data loss during recovery attempts.

Conclusion

Encountering the "Recovery Server Could Not Be Contacted" error in macOS High Sierra can be a daunting experience, but with the right troubleshooting steps, you can resolve the issue. From checking your internet connection to using Internet Recovery Mode, there are various methods to regain access to your system. Regular maintenance, software updates, and backups can help prevent this issue in the future. If all else fails, don't hesitate to consult Apple Support for professional assistance.