Expand Mac Mini
DFU MODE Restore Guide
Introduction
This guide walks you through restoring an M4 Mac Mini using Apple Configurator in DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode. This is essential for recovery from boot issues or when a complete system restore is necessary.
Prerequisites
- A Mac (2015 & After) running the latest version of macOS.
- The Apple Configurator app installed (from the Mac App Store).
- The correct firmware file: UniversalMac_15.4_24E248_Restore.ipsw
- A compatible USB-C data cable capable of USB 3.0 speed or higher. Avoid using Thunderbolt 3 cables.
- The M4 Mac Mini you intend to restore.
Installation Steps
Prepare Apple Configurator & Firmware
Ensure you have downloaded and installed Apple Configurator from the Mac App Store on your host Mac.
Confirm you have the correct IPSW file (linked in Prerequisites). Save it where you can easily find it.
Launch Apple Configurator on the host Mac.
Prepare Your M4 Mac Mini
Important: Make sure the SSD is securely inserted and mounting screws are properly tightened. Loose connections are a common failure point.
Connect the host Mac to the M4 Mac Mini using the appropriate USB-C cable. See "Important Notes" below for port details.
Unplug the power cable to make sure your M4 Mac Mini isn't connected to any power source.
Enter DFU Mode
Press and hold the power button on the M4 Mac Mini for 10 seconds.
While still holding the power button, connect the power cable to the M4 Mac Mini.
Keep holding the power button until the status light starts flashing orange.
Release the power button. The screen should remain black. If performed correctly, the host Mac running Apple Configurator should now detect a device in DFU mode.
Restore the Firmware
Watch this video for a visual guide on dragging the IPSW file:
In Apple Configurator on the host Mac, you should see an icon labeled "DFU".
Important: Do NOT click "Actions > Restore" directly in Configurator, as this will download the latest firmware. Network hiccups can cause download failures, and an incomplete firmware download can lead to Restore failing.
Drag the IPSW file you downloaded earlier directly onto the "DFU" icon within the Apple Configurator window (as shown in the video above).
Apple Configurator will prompt you to confirm the restore. Click "Restore".
The restoration process will begin. Wait patiently for it to complete (it can take several minutes). Do not disconnect the cables or power off either Mac.
Upon successful completion, the M4 Mac Mini should restart automatically and display the setup assistant.
Important Notes
Connection & Setup Details
- Port Connection: Please use the USB-C port with the Thunderbolt icon on the back, in the middle of your Mac Mini. Connect the other end to any compatible port on the host Mac.
- Cable Type: Use a reliable USB-C data cable (USB 3.0+ recommended). Avoid Thunderbolt3 cables.
- SSD Connection: Loose SSDs are a common cause of DFU restore failures. Double-check installation and screw tightness.
- Data Loss: This process will erase all data on the M4 Mac Mini. Back up first if possible.
Troubleshooting
Common Issues
Configurator Doesn't Detect DFU Device
- Press and hold the power button on the M4 Mac Mini for 10 seconds.
- While still holding the power button, connect the power cable to the M4 Mac Mini.
- Keep holding the power button until the status light starts flashing orange.
Restore Fails with Error Code (e.g., 4xxx, 21)
- Verify SSD connection/tightness.
- Try a different cable/ports.
- Ensure IPSW file is correct and not corrupted. Re-download if needed.
- Reboot or try a different host Mac if possible.
