How to fix the "The recovery server could not be contacted" error during macOS reinstallation

2024-09-03

This article explains how to fix the "The recovery server could not be contacted" error that prevents you from proceeding during macOS High Sierra reinstallation.

Solution

First, check if you're connected to Wi-Fi

Since you need to connect to a server, first check if your Mac is connected to Wi-Fi.

You can check the Wi-Fi status from the top right of the screen.

If you are connected to Wi-Fi, proceed to the next step.

Next Solution

To conclude, I was able to install macOS by changing the recovery server's access destination from "https://" to "http://" via the Terminal.

Let me explain in detail.

After the error appears, open "Window > Installer Log".

Find the following log in the Installer Log.

Failed to load catalog https://swscan.apple.com/content/catalogs/others/index-10.13-10.12-10.11-10.10-10.9-mountainlion-lion-snowleopard-leopard.merged-1.sucatalog: Error Domain=MSUProductManagerErrorDomain

With the relevant log selected, copy the error log using "cmd + C" or "Edit > Copy".

Quit the macOS installation once, return to macOS Utilities, and open "Utilities > Terminal".

Paste the log you just copied using "cmd + V" or "Edit > Paste", then rewrite it as follows, changing "https://" in the URL to "http://", and press Enter.

nvram IASUCatalogURL="http://swscan.apple.com/content/catalogs/others/index-10.13-10.12-10.11-10.10-10.9-mountainlion-lion-snowleopard-leopard.merged-1.sucatalog"

If it executes when you paste it, you can edit the previous command by pressing the "↑" key.

Please try your best to rewrite it.

Nothing happens when you press Enter, which might seem anticlimactic, but

If you proceed again from "Reinstall macOS", the terms and conditions will be displayed, and you should be able to install it!

Reference:https://mrmacintosh.com/how-to-fix-the-recovery-server-could-not-be-contacted-error-high-sierra-recovery-is-still-online-but-broken/

Comments

2026-06-28
Anonymous

Thanks to this blog, I was able to install it!
2026-06-29
Owner

Glad I could help!

Thank you for the report!

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