Obtaining Clean Catalina Image

[Miggity_Mac_User]

After some weird issues persisting when completing an "internet recovery", I thought it would be wise to try downloading the DMG from "Software Update" and checking the signature. Results have been attached. Two things seemed strange about this result.

1. Why did the signature change after running it twice and not re-downloading?
2. Why do none of these signatures exist online for verification?

Strange, no?

After calling Apple, they suggested I bring my computer into their store since they do not send out USBs/DVDs with images any more.

With this whole "pandemic" going on, I'd rather not go into the insanely over populated Apple Store.

Any ideas or suggestions?

 

[Erehy Dobon]

1. Why did the signature change after running it twice and not re-downloading?

The two checksums are identical with the exception of the letter 'c' at the beginning of the first string.

It appears that when you used command-c to interrupt the shasum command the first time around you inadvertently pressed the 'c' key twice.

I am willing to bet that if you execute the shasum command again and let it finish to its completion you will have the same two checksums as your second attempt.

2. Why do none of these signatures exist online for verification?

A question best answered by Apple I'm afraid.

 

[Miggity_Mac_User]

The two checksums are identical with the exception of the letter 'c' at the beginning of the first string.

It appears that when you used command-c to interrupt the shasum command the first time around you inadvertently pressed the 'c' key twice.

I am willing to bet that if you execute the shasum command again and let it finish to its completion you will have the same two checksums as your second attempt.


A question best answered by Apple I'm afraid.

Ah! Thanks. That answers the first question.