Although Apple releases new macOS versions annually, older operating systems often retain a dedicated following among IT professionals, developers, and retro-tech enthusiasts. Among these, macOS High Sierra (10.13.6) stands out as a pivotal release.
For users looking to run this OS in a virtual environment or on older hardware, the search term "macOS High Sierra 10.13.6.iso" is a common query. This article explores why this specific file format is sought after, the legalities of downloading it, and how to use it safely.
This uses Apple’s built-in hdiutil and asr (Apple Software Restore).
Step 1: Create a blank read/write disk image (CDR)
hdiutil create -o /tmp/HighSierra -size 6500m -volname macOS -layout SPUD -fs HFS+J
Note: The installer requires ~5.2GB, but we allocate 6.5GB to be safe. Macos High Sierra 10.13.6.iso
Step 2: Mount the blank image
hdiutil attach /tmp/HighSierra.dmg -noverify -mountpoint /Volumes/macOS
Step 3: Restore the installer onto the blank image
sudo /Applications/Install\ macOS\ High\ Sierra.app/Contents/Resources/createinstallmedia --volume /Volumes/macOS --nointeraction
This command turns the blank volume into a bootable macOS installer.
Step 4: Unmount the volume
hdiutil detach /Volumes/Install\ macOS\ High\ Sierra
Step 5: Convert the .dmg to .iso (compatible for all systems)
hdiutil convert /tmp/HighSierra.dmg -format UDTO -o ~/Desktop/macOS_High_Sierra_10.13.6.iso
mv ~/Desktop/macOS_High_Sierra_10.13.6.iso.cdr ~/Desktop/macOS_High_Sierra_10.13.6.iso
The final file will be on your Desktop as macOS_High_Sierra_10.13.6.iso.
If you want, I can:
Now that you have a pristine ISO, here is how to deploy it. Although Apple releases new macOS versions annually, older
Create bootable USB (Terminal) 3. Insert the USB drive and open Terminal. 4. Run (replace MyVolume with the USB name):
sudo /Applications/Install\ macOS\ High\ Sierra.app/Contents/Resources/createinstallmedia --volume /Volumes/MyVolume --applicationpath /Applications/Install\ macOS\ High\ Sierra.app --nointeraction
Boot and install 6. Plug USB into the target Mac and restart while holding Option (Alt) key. 7. Select the USB installer and press Enter. 8. (Optional) Use Disk Utility from the installer to erase/format the target drive as APFS (recommended for SSDs) or Mac OS Extended (Journaled) for older setups. GUID Partition Map must be used. 9. Choose "Install macOS" and follow on-screen instructions.
Notes