How to identify the DFU port on Mac
Find out how to find the device firmware update port on your Mac.
Why identify the DFU port
For certain tasks, such as reviving or restoring firmware or installing macOS on an external storage device, you need to know the location of your computer's DFU (device firmware update) port. Only a Mac with Apple silicon or Mac with the Apple T2 Security Chip has this DFU port, which looks identical to other ports that accept a type USB-C connector.
DFU port locations
With some exceptions, the DFU port is the type USB-C port farthest to the left (leftmost) or farthest to the right (rightmost) when you’re facing the ports. Some examples are pictured below the table.
Mac | DFU port location | |
|---|---|---|
Models with Apple silicon |
| |
Models with T2 chip |
| |
Models with Apple silicon |
| |
Models with T2 chip |
| |
All models |
| |
Models with Apple silicon |
| |
Models with T2 chip |
| |
All models |
| |
Models with tower enclosure |
| |
Models with rack enclosure |
|
DFU port examples
These examples show the DFU port on several Mac models. The location on your Mac model might differ. Consult the table above for details.
The leftmost USB-C port on a model of MacBook Pro:
The rightmost USB-C port on a model of MacBook Air:
The rightmost USB-C port on a model of iMac:
The USB-C port farthest from the power button on a Mac Pro with tower enclosure:
