Apple does not provide a direct download for a standalone "bootable DMG". To create one, you must first download the .app installer and then use the createinstallmedia command in Terminal to build a bootable USB drive.

You can use the Terminal to create a bootable drive from the .app file downloaded in Method 1.

: 2010 or newer (2012+ for certain features like Metal 2) iMac : Late 2009 or newer Mac mini / Mac Pro : 2010 or newer

Appendix B — Recommended minimal hardware checklist

Last updated: 2026 – This guide follows Apple’s software distribution policies. macOS High Sierra is provided as-is, and no longer receives security updates. Use at your own risk, ideally on an offline or isolated machine.

Apple officially provides High Sierra through the Mac App Store and via direct package links.