macOS Sierra Install: Fix “No bag entry”

If you’re trying to install macOS Sierra and encountering the dreaded “No bag entry” error message, you’re not alone. This issue usually appears when attempting to reinstall macOS from the macOS Utilities window. Fortunately, there are a couple of solutions that can help resolve the problem.

Why Does the “No Bag Entry” Error Happen?

The “No bag entry” error typically occurs due to an incorrect system date or an issue with Apple’s servers verifying your installation request. This often happens if:

• Your Mac’s date and time settings are incorrect.
• The macOS installer is trying to communicate with Apple’s servers, but authentication fails due to a time discrepancy.
• There are connectivity issues or problems with Apple’s servers.

The solution? Updating your Mac’s date and time manually.

1. To start, open Terminal. Make sure you have an internet connnection.

Solution 1: Sync Time Using Apple’s NTP Server

One way to fix this issue is by ensuring your Mac’s time is accurate by using Apple’s Network Time Protocol (NTP) service.

This method not always works:

Steps to Fix via NTP Service:

1. Ensure You Have an Internet Connection
   • If you’re using Wi-Fi, connect to a network from the top right corner of the macOS Utilities window.
   • If using Ethernet, make sure the cable is properly connected.
2. Open Terminal
   • Click on Utilities in the menu bar.
   • Select Terminal.
3. Run the Following Command: ntpdate -u time.apple.com This command synchronizes your Mac’s time with Apple’s NTP server.
4. Close Terminal and Try Installing macOS Again

If this solution works, great! If not, move on to the next method.

Solution 2: Manually Set the System Date

If the NTP update method does not work, manually setting the date is the next best option.

Steps to Manually Set the Date:

1. Ensure You Have an Internet Connection
   (Same as step 1 above)
2. Open Terminal
   • Click on Utilities in the menu bar.
   • Select Terminal.
3. Set the Date Manually
   Use the following command: date -u 0311102625
   • This command sets the date to March 11, 2025, at 10:26 AM UTC (modify as needed).
   • The format is: MMDDhhmmYY
     • MM → Month (e.g., 03 for March)
     • DD → Day (e.g., 11 for the 11th)
     • hhmm → Hours and Minutes (e.g., 1026 for 10:26 AM)
     • YY → Year (e.g., 25 for 2025)
4. Close Terminal and Retry Installing macOS

If you’re unsure of the current date format for your system, you can check the following guide:
View date formatting instructions here

Then, go back to installing again.

Final Thoughts

The “No bag entry” error is frustrating but can usually be resolved by adjusting your Mac’s date and time settings. Try Solution 1 first (syncing with Apple’s servers). If that doesn’t work, manually set the date using Solution 2.

Once the date is corrected, you should be able to proceed with the macOS Sierra installation smoothly.

Let me know in the comments if this worked for you or if you found another solution!

Last Updated on 11 March 2025