This method forces Apple’s catalog to fetch the full installer DMG.
softwareupdate --fetch-full-installer --full-installer-version 10.13.6 Use code with caution.
If you successfully downloaded the app from the App Store but specifically need a .dmg file for a virtual machine or archive, you can build it yourself using native macOS Terminal commands. macos high sierra download dmg install
You have performed a clean install of macOS High Sierra.
Launch your virtualization software and create a new guest machine profile. This method forces Apple’s catalog to fetch the
[Downloaded DMG File] ──> Double-Click to Mount ──> Open .pkg Installer ──> Extracts to Applications Folder
Some Macs that are technically compatible with High Sierra present unique challenges when it comes to installation. According to Apple support documentation, for macOS versions earlier than High Sierra 10.13, you must use a compatible older Mac to create a bootable installer. Similarly, many users report that modern Macs running newer operating systems cannot download older macOS versions directly from the App Store because Apple's storefront performs compatibility checks. You have performed a clean install of macOS High Sierra
If you choose this route, verify the file integrity by checking its MD5 or SHA-256 checksum against known official values. This ensures the operating system has not been injected with malware or keyloggers. How to Install macOS High Sierra Using a DMG
Once the process completes, Terminal will display "Done." Your bootable USB installer is ready for use.
Downloading and installing macOS High Sierra (10.13) can be tricky because Apple no longer lists it directly in the App Store search. You can get the official full installer through the Apple Support page Microsoft Community Hub 1. Download the Full Installer Via Web Browser: this official link to open the hidden App Store page. Click to download the Install macOS High Sierra.app (approx. 5.2–7.7 GB) to your /Applications Via Terminal: If you are on macOS Catalina or later, run this command: