How To Fix Could Not Be Verified macOS Big Sur, Monterey, Ventura, Catalina

Anyone who has attempted to install or upgrade macOS knows that the process can sometimes be fraught with errors. The dreaded “macOS (version) could not be verified” error is among the most common you might encounter. This issue can occur when you try to install macOS on either your internal hard drive or an external disk. In this article, I will guide you through the process of troubleshooting and resolving the “could not be verified” issue when upgrading to or reinstalling macOS Big Sur, Monterey, Ventura, Catalina, or any other version.

Why Won’t My Mac Let Me Install macOS Big Sur?

The introduction of macOS Big Sur was met with much fanfare, but some users encountered hurdles in the installation process. Several reasons might explain why your Mac isn’t allowing the Big Sur installation, ranging from incompatible devices to insufficient storage space. A good macOS cleaner like Intego Washing Machine can be a great solution, as it can help you get rid of all unnecessary files, caches, and other build-ups, optimizing almost immediately your storage space.

Typically, Apple only supports Mac models for approximately seven years. If your device is older, it may not be able to run Big Sur. Furthermore, macOS Big Sur requires a minimum of 35.5GB of available storage – anything less might halt the installation process.

Why Is My Mac Unable To Verify macOS?

Verifying macOS is a crucial step for the system’s security and stability. However, there can be times when your Mac struggles with this task. Often, a faulty internet connection, incorrect date and time settings, or an outdated macOS can lead to verification issues.

How To Fix Could Not Be Verified macOS Big Sur, Ventura, Monterey, Catalina

Before moving on to more complex solutions, make sure to do the following:

• Check Apple’s system status page to ensure there isn’t a global issue with macOS Software Update. If there is an outage, all you need to do is wait. If not, proceed to the next steps.
• Make sure you have a strong, stable connection. Try to minimize network traffic by disconnecting other devices, consider using an Ethernet cable for a more reliable connection, or get closer to your router. If you are using a VPN or security software, temporarily disable them, as they can sometimes interfere with the update process.
• Firewalls blocking incoming connections can prevent the macOS installer from running correctly. Make sure that your settings allow incoming connections. Go to System Settings > Network > Firewall and turn it off.

1. Use the App Store

macOS Ventura won’t install? Check out the best solutions to successfully install it.

2. Boot Into Safe Mode

Safe Mode loads only the necessary components and verifies your startup disk. It can often resolve issues that occur during normal operation.

For Macs with Apple Silicon

1. Start by choosing Apple menu > Shut Down on your Mac.
2. After your Mac has completely shut down, press and hold the power button until you see Loading startup options.
3. Select the volume you wish to boot from.
4. Continue holding the Shift key and then click Continue in Safe Mode.
5. Your Mac will then restart automatically. Once the login window appears, you should see Safe Boot in the menu bar, indicating that you are in Safe Mode.
6. Now try once again to update or install your macOS.

For Intel-based Macs

1. Turn on or restart your Mac and then immediately press and hold the Shift key until the login window appears.
2. Log into your Mac. You might be asked to log in a second time.
3. Either on the first or second login window, you should see Safe Boot in the menu bar, which confirms you are in Safe Mode.
4. Try again to update or install your macOS.

3. Repair Your Startup Disk

You can use Disk Utility’s First Aid in macOS Recovery to check for and repair disk errors that might be causing verification failures. Here’s how to do this:

1. Restart your Mac.
2. While the startup disk is waking up, press and hold the Command and R keys together. This will boot your Mac into Recovery Mode.
3. Once you see the Apple logo or a spinning globe, release the keys.
4. When the macOS Utilities window appears, select Disk Utility and click Continue.
   
5. Choose your startup disk from the sidebar and click on First Aid.
   
6. Click Run to start the disk checking and repair process. If Disk Utility tells you the disk is about to fail, back up your data and replace the disk. Otherwise, if no errors are reported click Done.
7. Restart your Mac normally to exit Recovery Mode.

4. Check Your Date & Time Settings

Incorrect date and time settings can interfere with macOS verification. Navigate to System Settings > General > Date & Time and ensure your settings are correct. The could not be verified issue while updating macOS Big Sur and the other releases should be solved.

For more potential solutions, check out what to do if macOS install is stuck (Monterey, Ventura, Sierra and more).

What Do I Do When My Mac Is Stuck on Software Update?

When your Mac gets stuck during a software update, it can feel like a never-ending loop. However, there are several solutions to get your device back up and running. Safe boot, resetting the NVRAM, or booting in Recovery Mode can often resolve this issue. If you’re still experiencing difficulties, consulting with a tech professional or Apple’s support might be necessary.

Why Does My Mac Say ‘An Error Occurred During Update’?

Your Mac may occasionally display the ‘an error occurred during update’ message. It might mean that the macOS download file is corrupt or that there’s an issue with your Mac’s software update service. Resolving this can involve deleting and re-downloading the update, or resetting the Software Update service.

Why Does My Mac Keep Saying ‘Error While Installing’?

Seeing the ‘error while installing’ message pop-up repeatedly during a macOS update can be frustrating. It’s typically a symptom of minor software glitches, an overworked system, or a lack of storage space. Try closing unnecessary applications to free up system resources and ensure that your Mac has enough space to perform the update.

Remember, before trying any fix that involves system changes or data loss, always ensure your data is safely backed up. With a bit of patience and following these steps, you should be able to resolve the “Could not be verified” error while updating macOS Big Sur and other versions.