Downgrade from Mac OS X 10.6.3 to Mac OS X 10.6.2: Two Easy Options

The easiest way to deal with a disruptive issue that occurs after the Mac OS X 10.6.3 update is to simply revert to Mac OS X 10.6.2. Although this option eliminates important security fixes included in Mac OS X 10.6.3, along with any other enhancements, it may be the best option if a problem is interrupting your workflow. There are two easy approaches to downgrading:

Reinstall (if you don’t have a current Time Machine backup). Insert your Snow Leopard installation disc, then restart while holding down the C key. When prompted, choose the normal “Install” option. Make sure to select “Preserve Users and Network Settings.”

After installation, you’ll be left with an earlier iteration of Mac OS X 10.6.x (current retail discs include Mac OS X 10.6.2), but an otherwise largely intact system. Download the Mac OS X 10.6.2 combo updater and apply it if your disc has an earlier version of Snow Leopard. You may need to restore some saved username/password information, browser information, etc.

Restore from Time Machine Backup. If you have a current Time Machine backup, connect the Time Machine backup disk, then insert your Snow Leopard installation disc, then restart while holding down the C key. After selecting your language, go to the Utilities menu and choose “Restore from Time Machine Backup.” Choose your Time Machine backup disk and choose a backup iteration directly prior to when you installed the Mac OS X 10.6.3, and continue with the process.

SK( Managing Editor )

Obsessed with tech since the early arrival of A/UX on Apple, Sudz (SK) is responsible for the original editorial direction of AppleToolBox. He is based out of Los Angeles, CA.

Sudz specializes in covering all things macOS, having reviewed dozens of OS X and macOS developments over the years.

In a former life, Sudz worked helping Fortune 100 companies with their technology and business transformation aspirations.