Make a Bootable macOS USB Installer: Whether you’re running a modern macOS or a vintage version like Lion OS X, having a backup copy of your installer is a smart move. A backup ensures that you can reinstall macOS if something goes wrong, set up another Mac without redownloading the installer, or preserve an older version for compatibility reasons. In this guide, I’ll show you how to create modern macOS bootable USB installer backups and, for historical reference, how to create a Lion OS X backup DVD.
Backing up your macOS installer is a good habit, whether you're using the latest macOS or an older version like Lion. Creating a backup installer ensures you can reinstall macOS if something goes wrong or if you need to set up another Mac.
Creating a macOS Bootable USB Installer
For modern macOS (Monterey, Ventura, Sonoma, etc.), Apple distributes installers via the App Store. Here's how to make a backup:
- Download the macOS Installer from the App Store or Apple website.
- Create a Bootable USB:
- Insert a USB drive (16GB or larger) and open Terminal.
- Run the following command, replacing /Applications/Install macOS [Version].app with your installer path and /Volumes/MyUSB with your USB drive name:
sudo /Applications/Install\ macOS\ [Version].app/Contents/Resources/createinstallmedia --volume /Volumes/MyUSB
- Enter your password and wait for the process to finish.
- You now have a bootable installer that can be used for installation or backup purposes.
Why Make a macOS Installer Backup?
- Reinstall macOS without redownloading the installer.
- Set up multiple Macs without repeated downloads.
- Keep a historical copy of a specific macOS version for compatibility reasons.
Legacy Guide: Creating a Backup DVD for OS X Lion (2011)
For historical reference, here’s how you would create a backup DVD for the old Lion OS X installer:
- Minimize the Mac OS X Lion installation screen.
- Start Disk Utility: Finder > Applications > Utilities > Disk Utility.
- In Finder, go to Applications, right-click Install Mac OS X Lion, select Show Package Contents.
- Navigate to Contents > SharedSupport, right-click InstallESD.dmg, and select Burn "InstallESD.dmg" to Disc to write it to a blank DVD.
After burning, your OS X Lion backup DVD is ready. Note: This applies only to older Macs running Lion and is largely of historical interest today.
Final Thoughts
Creating installer backups is still relevant for modern macOS versions, especially if you manage multiple Macs or need offline installation options. The legacy Lion DVD method shows how things used to be done, but USB bootable installers are the preferred approach today.
For modern backup tips and optimizing macOS installations, check out our guide on macOS backups and installer creation.
DVD/USB macOS Installer Backup FAQ
How do I create a bootable macOS USB installer?
Open Terminal and run:
sudo /Applications/Install\ macOS\ [Version].app/Contents/Resources/createinstallmedia --volume /Volumes/MyUSB
Replace the paths with your installer and USB drive name.
Can I use a DVD to back up macOS Lion?
Yes, for older Macs with OS X Lion, burn InstallESD.dmg to a blank DVD using Disk Utility.
Why make a macOS installer backup?
Backups let you reinstall macOS without redownloading, set up multiple Macs, and preserve older versions for compatibility.
Do I need a USB for modern macOS backups?
Yes, USB drives (16GB+) are the preferred method for bootable backups. DVDs are largely obsolete for modern macOS versions.
Can I reuse the same USB installer on multiple Macs?
Yes, a single bootable USB installer can be used on any compatible Mac.
Is it safe to keep older macOS installers?
Yes, keeping historical installers can help with app compatibility, troubleshooting, or setting up older Macs.