Rufus obtain for Mac, whereas not a local possibility, opens a world of potentialities for Mac customers looking for to create bootable USB drives. Navigating the digital panorama, we’ll discover the nuances of this course of, from the restrictions to the inventive workarounds. This complete information delves into the intricacies of utilizing Rufus on macOS, outlining the strategies, potential pitfalls, and the inspiring options out there.
Get able to unlock the ability of bootable USBs in your Mac!
This complete useful resource supplies a radical rationalization of Rufus, its functionalities, and the mandatory steps for a profitable obtain and utilization on macOS. We’ll cowl the technical points, together with numerous obtain choices and strategies, in addition to the important steps for using Rufus on Home windows and exploring alternate options for Mac. Furthermore, we’ll deal with widespread issues and safety concerns to make sure a seamless expertise for all customers.
Introduction to Rufus

Rufus, a free and open-source utility, is a well-liked selection for creating bootable USB drives. It is a easy instrument, typically most popular for its simplicity and effectiveness in getting working programs or different important software program onto a drive for set up or troubleshooting. Its user-friendly interface and highly effective performance make it a superb selection for each novice and skilled customers.Its major function is to shortly and reliably create bootable USB drives from ISO pictures, a vital step for putting in or testing working programs and different software program.
This course of, whereas seemingly easy, will be important in numerous conditions, from fixing a pc’s working system to attempting out new software program with out putting in it completely on the onerous drive.
Key Options and Functionalities
Rufus affords a complete suite of options for creating bootable media. These embody help for numerous working programs, equivalent to Home windows, Linux, and macOS. Importantly, it helps a wide selection of file programs and codecs, making it extremely versatile. It is also identified for its capability to routinely detect the proper settings in your USB drive, considerably lowering the potential for errors through the course of.
The person interface is clear and intuitive, streamlining the method for each novice and skilled customers.
Accessible Variations and Editions
Rufus is primarily a single, unified software. There aren’t distinct variations or editions within the conventional sense. The software program is frequently up to date with bug fixes, efficiency enhancements, and new options. This constant growth ensures compatibility with trendy programs and retains the instrument useful and dependable.
Normal Workflow
The workflow for making a bootable USB drive with Rufus is simple. First, the person selects the ISO picture file containing the working system or different software program. Subsequent, Rufus identifies the linked USB drive. Then, the person opinions the settings, which frequently embody the goal drive and the file system. Lastly, the person initiates the method, and Rufus proceeds to create the bootable drive.
This complete course of is usually fast and environment friendly.
Historical past of Rufus
Rufus, developed by somebody keen about making highly effective instruments available to everybody, emerged as a vital instrument for laptop customers. Its creation was pushed by a want to offer a dependable and user-friendly methodology for creating bootable media, filling a necessity available in the market for such a flexible and accessible instrument. Its historical past is marked by fixed refinement and enchancment, guaranteeing that Rufus stays a helpful useful resource for anybody needing to create bootable USB drives.
Rufus for Mac
Rufus, a well-liked bootable USB drive creator, is not instantly supported on macOS. This presents a little bit of a problem for Mac customers who may have to create bootable drives for numerous functions. Nonetheless, there are workarounds and various approaches.The absence of a local Rufus software for macOS stems from the elemental variations within the underlying file programs and working system architectures between Home windows and macOS.
This is not a easy incompatibility, however somewhat a mirrored image of the distinct design philosophies of every platform. Consequently, direct porting is not easy.
Limitations of Utilizing Rufus on macOS
The core difficulty is Rufus’s reliance on Home windows-specific functionalities. This implies its instructions and interactions aren’t instantly suitable with the macOS setting. Attempting to power it to work typically results in sudden outcomes, corrupted information, and even system instability.
Strategies for Utilizing Rufus on macOS
Customers have employed numerous methods to bypass the dearth of native Rufus help. One widespread methodology includes using digital machine software program, like VirtualBox or Parallels Desktop. Operating a Home windows digital machine on macOS permits Rufus to perform inside that remoted setting. One other strategy includes using third-party instruments or scripts designed to imitate Rufus’s performance on macOS. Nonetheless, these strategies typically include trade-offs when it comes to efficiency, safety, and compatibility.
Potential Dangers and Challenges
Using non-native strategies to make use of Rufus on macOS can introduce important dangers. For instance, incorrect configurations inside a digital machine setting can result in file corruption or system instability. Moreover, utilizing third-party instruments to emulate Rufus functionalities may introduce vulnerabilities if the instruments usually are not correctly vetted. Fastidiously assessing the safety implications of any such methodology is paramount.
Causes for No Native Rufus for Mac
The first motive Rufus is not natively out there for macOS is because of the underlying structure of the 2 working programs. macOS’s design and the instruments used inside it are basically completely different from Home windows. The core functionalities required for Rufus’s operations usually are not instantly accessible or suitable with macOS’s system calls. For this reason a direct port of the software program could be technically advanced and susceptible to errors.
Alternate options to Rufus on macOS
Quite a few various instruments present comparable functionalities to Rufus on macOS. These embody Disk Utility, which affords fundamental bootable drive creation capabilities. Different functions like UNetbootin, Etcher, and BalenaEtcher are additionally viable choices. Every affords its personal set of options and capabilities, and choosing the proper one depends upon the precise wants of the person.
Downloading Rufus for Home windows
Rufus, a strong and versatile utility for creating bootable USB drives, is a must have instrument for anybody working with computer systems. Getting your fingers on the most recent model is simple, and this information will stroll you thru the method, guaranteeing you will have the fitting model in your wants. It is like getting the proper recipe for a bootable USB – exact, dependable, and able to use.Rufus is offered for obtain from its official web site.
This ensures you get the real, supported model, free from potential malware or errors. It is essential to obtain from trusted sources to ensure the integrity of your downloads. Downloading from the official supply supplies probably the most up-to-date options and fixes, guaranteeing compatibility together with your working system.
Obtain Hyperlinks and Variations
Downloading the proper model of Rufus is crucial for optimum efficiency. The official web site affords completely different variations to cater to numerous wants and working programs. This part particulars the out there variations in your comfort.
- The most recent steady launch is normally your best option for many customers. This ensures you will have entry to the most recent bug fixes and enhancements.
- Older variations could also be essential for compatibility with particular {hardware} or software program configurations. Take into account this if you’re working with older working programs.
- Beta variations provide early entry to new options, however could include instability. When you’re snug with a barely much less steady model, beta variations can be found to discover.
Obtain Strategies
Navigating the obtain course of is simple. The official Rufus web site supplies clear directions. Utilizing the direct obtain hyperlinks is the best methodology.
- Go to the official Rufus web site. Find the obtain hyperlink for the specified model.
- Click on the obtain hyperlink, and the file will start downloading routinely.
- Select an appropriate location for saving the obtain file. It will assist in simple retrieval.
File Codecs
The obtain course of normally leads to a normal executable file (`.exe`). That is the usual file format for Home windows functions. Different file sorts are uncommon.
- `.exe` information are the usual for Home windows functions and are simply executed.
Evaluating Obtain Speeds
Obtain speeds fluctuate primarily based on web connection and file measurement. A sooner web connection typically leads to sooner downloads.
Rufus Model | Estimated Obtain Time (Typical Connection) |
---|---|
Rufus v3.20 | Roughly 1-2 minutes |
Rufus v3.18 | Roughly 1-2 minutes |
Rufus v3.16 | Roughly 1-2 minutes |
Observe: These estimates are primarily based on common obtain speeds and file sizes. Precise obtain occasions could fluctuate.
Utilizing Rufus on Home windows
Rufus, a flexible and user-friendly utility, empowers you to swiftly rework a normal USB drive right into a bootable media provider for numerous working programs. This course of is essential for duties like putting in or repairing a system, creating restoration media, and even attempting out completely different OS variations with out altering your major drive. The intuitive interface and complete choices inside Rufus make the method remarkably easy.Making a bootable USB drive with Rufus is an easy process.
First, join the USB drive to your laptop. Subsequent, launch Rufus and choose the proper USB drive from the system record. Crucially, make sure you’ve chosen the fitting drive to keep away from unintended knowledge loss. Afterward, find and choose the ISO picture file containing the working system you need to set up.
Choosing the ISO Picture
Correct collection of the ISO picture is paramount for a profitable bootable drive creation. Fastidiously evaluation the file identify and the related working system to make sure compatibility. Double-checking the ISO file sort is important to keep away from mismatches that may hinder the method. For example, a Home windows 10 ISO file will not work for a macOS set up.
Rufus Choices and Settings
Rufus supplies a spread of customizable choices. This system permits you to choose the partition scheme and file system for the USB drive. Understanding these choices is significant for optimum drive configuration and compatibility. The interface is intuitive, enabling even novice customers to navigate and modify settings.
File Programs Supported
Rufus helps a wide selection of file programs, essential for guaranteeing compatibility with completely different working programs and functions. This complete help makes Rufus a helpful instrument for numerous duties.
File System | Description |
---|---|
FAT32 | A broadly used file system, supporting numerous working programs. |
NTFS | A strong file system identified for its reliability and compatibility. |
exFAT | A sophisticated file system that effectively manages giant information and partitions. |
Making a Restoration Drive
Making a restoration drive with Rufus is a sensible methodology to make sure your system’s integrity and restore it to a working state if wanted. Choose the choice in Rufus to create a restoration drive for the precise OS. This includes copying important system information to the USB drive, enabling swift system restoration in case of errors. By doing so, you create a helpful safeguard towards potential knowledge loss.
Rufus Alternate options for Mac: Rufus Obtain For Mac
Rufus, a well-liked utility for creating bootable USB drives, is primarily a Home windows software. Whereas there is not a direct macOS equal with exactly the identical options, a number of highly effective instruments provide comparable performance. This exploration delves into some high alternate options, highlighting their capabilities and usefulness on the Mac platform.
Exploring Mac-Pleasant Alternate options
A number of macOS functions provide comparable performance to Rufus, catering to numerous wants and preferences. These instruments permit customers to create bootable USB drives, and a few even help a wider vary of picture codecs and ISO information.
High Alternate options for macOS, Rufus obtain for mac
These alternate options present comparable functionalities to Rufus, providing a spread of choices for macOS customers.
- Disk Utility: A built-in macOS software, Disk Utility, is a complete instrument for managing disk partitions. It excels in dealing with fundamental duties equivalent to creating bootable drives. It is a available possibility for these looking for a easy, dependable methodology. Disk Utility is commonly the primary selection for customers needing to create bootable drives from ISO information for OS installations or different system-related operations.
Its user-friendly interface simplifies the method, making it an appropriate possibility for rookies and superior customers alike.
- Etcher: Etcher is a cross-platform software famend for its ease of use and help for quite a lot of working programs. It is a incredible selection for creating bootable USB drives from numerous picture codecs, together with ISO information. Etcher’s intuitive interface and easy workflow make it ultimate for customers looking for an easy, cross-platform answer.
- UNetbootin: This software, a cross-platform utility, stands out for its capability to create bootable USB drives. Its compatibility with numerous working programs makes it a horny selection for these looking for a flexible instrument. It is a strong various for creating bootable USB drives, providing an easy person expertise.
Detailed Options and Advantages
Every various instrument possesses distinct strengths and weaknesses. A cautious comparability is significant to selecting the right match.
- Disk Utility: This native macOS software supplies a easy but efficient methodology for creating bootable USB drives. Its strengths lie in its simplicity and ease of use, whereas its limitations could stem from its fundamental options when in comparison with specialised instruments.
- Etcher: This software excels in its easy design and broad help for various picture codecs. Its deal with simplicity and effectivity makes it a well-liked selection for a lot of customers.
- UNetbootin: This instrument’s cross-platform nature makes it a flexible selection. Its compatibility with numerous working programs affords a sensible benefit, particularly when working throughout completely different platforms. Its user-friendly interface simplifies the method of making bootable USB drives.
Comparability Desk
This desk summarizes the benefits and drawbacks of every various.
Characteristic | Disk Utility | Etcher | UNetbootin |
---|---|---|---|
Ease of Use | Excessive | Excessive | Medium |
Picture Format Assist | Restricted | Intensive | Intensive |
Cross-Platform | No | Sure | Sure |
Extra Options | Disk administration | Checksum verification | GUI and command-line |
Set up and Utilization
Detailed directions on putting in and utilizing every various can be found on their respective web sites. These directions present clear steerage, guaranteeing a seamless course of. For every software, complete tutorials and documentation are readily accessible to facilitate correct use.
Widespread Issues and Options
Navigating the digital world can typically really feel like navigating a maze. Rufus, a strong instrument for creating bootable USB drives, is commonly the important thing to unlocking this digital world, however like several instrument, it has its quirks. Understanding widespread issues and their options can prevent important time and frustration. Let’s delve into the potential pitfalls and how you can overcome them.This part will illuminate the everyday points encountered whereas utilizing Rufus, offering clear, actionable options.
We’ll cowl obtain hiccups, bootable drive creation issues, compatibility challenges, and extra. By understanding these points, you may be well-equipped to deal with any digital hurdle Rufus throws your manner.
Widespread Obtain Errors
Obtain errors can stem from numerous sources, from community instability to server overload. This is a breakdown of typical points and how you can deal with them:
- Interrupted Downloads: A sudden energy outage or community disruption throughout a obtain can go away the file incomplete. A easy restart of the obtain course of typically fixes this. If the problem persists, attempt downloading the file once more from a unique supply.
- Incorrect File Sizes: Confirm the downloaded file’s measurement towards the anticipated measurement listed on the obtain web site. Discrepancies may point out corruption or an incomplete obtain. Redownload the file.
- Checksum Mismatches: A checksum mismatch signifies that the downloaded file has been altered or corrupted through the switch. Redownload the file and examine checksums to verify integrity.
- Incompatible Information: Be certain that the downloaded file is suitable together with your working system and {hardware}. Search for system necessities or compatibility notices.
Troubleshooting Bootable USB Drive Creation
Creating bootable USB drives requires cautious consideration to element. Let’s take a look at widespread points and options:
- Drive Not Acknowledged: The USB drive won’t be correctly linked or could be corrupted. Attempt a unique USB port, and if the problem persists, test the drive’s well being utilizing a disk utility.
- Error Messages Throughout Creation: Pay shut consideration to the error messages displayed by Rufus. These messages typically include essential clues to determine the basis reason behind the issue. Seek the advice of Rufus’s documentation for particular error codes or confer with on-line boards for group help.
- Incompatible File System: Make sure the chosen file system (e.g., FAT32, NTFS) is suitable with the working system you are focusing on. Select the proper possibility for optimum compatibility.
- Incorrect Partitioning: Verify the proper partitioning scheme and drive settings in your USB drive. Misconfigurations can result in creation failures.
Compatibility Points
Software program compatibility is a frequent supply of issues. This is how you can deal with them:
- Outdated Drivers: Be certain that all drivers in your {hardware}, notably the USB controller, are up-to-date. Outdated drivers may cause points with USB drive recognition and communication.
- Working System Variations: Confirm that the goal working system helps the precise model of Rufus getting used. Utilizing a suitable model of Rufus and its meant goal OS is paramount for clean operation.
- {Hardware} Limitations: Sure USB drives won’t be suitable with Rufus as a consequence of limitations within the {hardware} or firmware. Take into account compatibility listings or documentation.
Rufus FAQ
- Can I take advantage of Rufus on a number of working programs? Rufus is a flexible instrument, supporting numerous working programs. Check with the Rufus documentation for OS-specific compatibility.
- How do I create a bootable USB drive for a particular working system? Comply with the precise directions in your goal working system and make sure the right boot choices are chosen.
- What ought to I do if Rufus fails to acknowledge my USB drive? Examine the USB drive’s connection, guarantee the driving force is up to date, and take a look at utilizing a unique USB port. Seek the advice of on-line boards for additional help.
Rufus for Particular Duties
Rufus, a flexible utility, transcends its major perform of making bootable USB drives. Its adaptability extends to a spread of specialised duties, making it a helpful instrument for various customers. From putting in Linux distributions to upgrading working programs, Rufus empowers customers to deal with a mess of laptop administration wants. Its user-friendly interface, mixed with its highly effective capabilities, makes it a necessary instrument in any laptop person’s arsenal.
Putting in a Linux Distribution
Making a bootable USB drive for putting in a Linux distribution is simple with Rufus. Choose the ISO picture file of the specified Linux distribution and select the suitable USB drive. Rufus will format the drive and put together it in addition from the ISO picture. Crucially, guarantee you choose the proper drive to stop unintended knowledge loss. This step is important, as a mistaken choice might end result within the lack of all knowledge on the goal drive.
Following these steps will guarantee a clean set up course of.
Information Restoration
Rufus, whereas primarily a bootable USB creation instrument, can typically play a task in knowledge restoration. In some situations, booting from a Rufus-created USB drive permits entry to knowledge on a corrupted onerous drive. This isn’t a major perform, and success depends upon the character of the corruption. It is necessary to do not forget that knowledge restoration instruments designed particularly for this function typically provide extra complete options.
Making a Bootable USB for System Diagnostics
A bootable USB drive created with Rufus generally is a highly effective instrument for system diagnostics. Many diagnostic instruments are designed to run from a bootable setting. This lets you entry system info and test for potential issues without having to load the working system. Such diagnostics are helpful in troubleshooting {hardware} or software program points. A typical instance is operating reminiscence exams from a bootable setting to test for RAM errors.
Upgrading Working Programs
Rufus can facilitate working system upgrades by making a bootable USB drive containing the improve media. That is notably helpful for upgrading to a more moderen model of an working system. The method is just like putting in a brand new working system, using the ISO picture of the improve media. This methodology supplies a handy method to carry out working system upgrades with out the necessity for a number of media codecs.
Cloning Onerous Drives
Rufus can be used to clone onerous drives, though it is not its major perform. Specialised cloning software program sometimes affords extra strong and environment friendly options for this process. Cloning a tough drive includes creating an actual duplicate of the supply drive to the vacation spot drive. That is helpful for backing up knowledge or migrating to a bigger drive, guaranteeing that every one knowledge is copied precisely.
Care should be taken to make sure the vacation spot drive is giant sufficient to accommodate the information from the supply drive.
Safety Concerns
Defending your knowledge and system integrity is paramount when utilizing Rufus to create bootable drives. Understanding the safety implications, and taking the mandatory precautions, will guarantee a clean and protected expertise. Somewhat vigilance goes a good distance in safeguarding your helpful info.Cautious dealing with of ISO pictures and bootable media is essential. Unverified or compromised ISO information can introduce malware or undesirable software program into your system.
By understanding potential vulnerabilities and following the Artikeld precautions, you possibly can keep a safe setting in your work and private information.
Verifying Downloaded ISO Information
Guaranteeing the integrity of downloaded ISO information is important to stop malicious code or corrupted knowledge from being written to your bootable media. Incorrect ISO information can result in system instability, knowledge loss, and even compromise your system safety.
- Checksum Verification: Many ISO information include checksums (e.g., MD5, SHA-256). These checksums are distinctive digital fingerprints that confirm the file’s integrity. Obtain the checksum related to the ISO file you need to use from a good supply. Use a checksum calculator to confirm the downloaded ISO file towards the offered checksum. In the event that they match, the ISO file is probably going protected to make use of.
- Obtain from Trusted Sources: All the time obtain ISO information from official web sites or respected on-line repositories. Keep away from downloading from untrusted sources, as these information could include malware or be corrupted. Be cautious of internet sites providing free software program that appears too good to be true. Trustworthiness is essential in stopping potential hurt.
- Scan Downloaded Information: Utilizing antivirus software program to scan downloaded ISO information is a brilliant apply. Trendy antivirus packages can detect malicious code hidden inside seemingly innocent information. A very good antivirus program generally is a sturdy protection towards unknown threats.
Information Security and Precautions
Cautious dealing with of knowledge is essential when utilizing Rufus. A misplaced command or a defective ISO can result in knowledge loss or system harm.
- Backup Essential Information: Earlier than creating any bootable media, again up all necessary knowledge on the drive you propose to make use of. Information loss can happen in numerous methods, from easy errors to advanced system failures. Information backup procedures are important for restoration and peace of thoughts.
- Double-Examine Vacation spot Drive: Double-check the vacation spot drive you have chosen. Misidentifying the drive can lead to irreversible knowledge loss. Ensure you’re deciding on the proper drive earlier than initiating the method.
- Confirm Rufus Settings: Fastidiously evaluation the Rufus settings earlier than continuing with the bootable drive creation course of. A mistaken choice might result in unintended overwriting of your knowledge.
- Perceive the Course of: Totally perceive the method of making a bootable drive with Rufus. Be aware of the irreversible nature of the operation. Thorough understanding of the method reduces the chance of errors.
Potential Vulnerabilities and Dangers
Understanding the potential vulnerabilities is crucial for protected operation. Malicious actors may attempt to exploit vulnerabilities to achieve unauthorized entry or trigger harm.
- Compromised ISO Information: Malicious actors can craft and distribute compromised ISO information. These information can include malware or backdoors that permit unauthorized entry to your system.
- Drive Errors: Bodily drive points can lead to knowledge loss through the bootable drive creation course of. Cautious dealing with of {hardware} is essential to reduce such dangers.
- Human Error: Errors within the course of, equivalent to deciding on the mistaken drive or getting into incorrect instructions, can result in knowledge loss or system corruption. Double-checking all settings and confirming decisions is crucial.
Precautions to Keep away from Information Loss or Corruption
Implementing precautions is vital to sustaining a protected and dependable setting when utilizing Rufus. A proactive strategy can mitigate dangers.
- Common Software program Updates: Preserve Rufus and your working system up-to-date. Patches typically deal with safety vulnerabilities and supply essential bug fixes.
- Dependable ISO Sources: All the time use respected sources for ISO pictures. Keep away from untrusted sources to reduce the prospect of malicious information.
- Thorough Verification: All the time confirm ISO information and their checksums earlier than continuing with the bootable drive creation course of. This can be a important step to make sure the integrity of the information.
Rufus Options and Choices

Rufus, a flexible utility for creating bootable USB drives, boasts a spread of customizable choices. Understanding these choices empowers you to tailor Rufus to particular wants, guaranteeing the creation of a superbly suited bootable drive in your duties. This complete information delves into every setting, highlighting its significance and affect on the ultimate product.Rufus’s flexibility lies in its capability to be adjusted for numerous functions.
Whether or not you are putting in an working system, performing knowledge restoration, or attempting out a brand new Linux distribution, Rufus affords the mandatory management.
Normal Settings
This part homes basic choices essential for specifying the drive and the picture for use. Cautious consideration of those settings is significant for a profitable bootable drive creation.
- Gadget: This setting specifies the USB drive for use. Choose the proper drive to stop unintended knowledge loss on the mistaken system. Make sure you’ve chosen the meant USB drive to keep away from knowledge corruption. Double-check your choice to verify the proper USB drive earlier than continuing.
- Picture: This setting specifies the ISO picture file containing the working system or different bootable content material. Choosing the proper picture is paramount for making a useful bootable drive. Fastidiously select the ISO picture to match the specified end result. A mismatch will forestall the drive from booting appropriately.
Partition Settings
These settings management how Rufus codecs the USB drive. These settings are important for correct operation of the bootable drive. Understanding these settings permits you to tailor the drive to particular wants.
- Partition Scheme: This selection dictates the construction of the drive’s partitions. A correct partition scheme is crucial for compatibility with completely different working programs. The choice ought to align with the meant function of the drive. Incorrect choice can result in compatibility points with the goal system.
- Create a brand new partition desk: Choosing this selection allows Rufus to erase and recreate the partition desk on the USB drive. This ensures a clear slate for the bootable drive. Be cautious, as this motion will erase any current knowledge on the drive. Use this solely when creating a brand new bootable drive.
Superior Settings
These choices permit for extra fine-grained management over the bootable drive creation course of.
- Cluster Dimension: This setting determines the scale of the information blocks on the drive. Adjusting this setting can affect efficiency in particular conditions. A bigger cluster measurement may provide sooner writing speeds, whereas a smaller measurement may present higher knowledge group.
- Hidden partition: This setting permits creation of a hidden partition on the USB drive, typically helpful for troubleshooting or upkeep. This may be important in some situations for knowledge restoration. Use this selection fastidiously, as improper utilization can result in knowledge loss.
Extra Choices
These choices present superior controls for personalization.
- Quiet Mode: This selection silences Rufus’s suggestions through the course of. That is useful for automation or batch processes. Use this setting if you wish to suppress output through the course of.
Settings Abstract Desk
Setting | Operate | Significance |
---|---|---|
Gadget | Selects the USB drive | Crucial for stopping unintended knowledge loss |
Picture | Specifies the bootable ISO | Ensures compatibility with the goal system |
Partition Scheme | Defines drive partition construction | Essential for system compatibility |
Cluster Dimension | Determines knowledge block measurement | Impacts write pace and knowledge group |
Hidden Partition | Creates a hidden partition | Helpful for particular troubleshooting or upkeep |
Quiet Mode | Suppresses output throughout course of | Useful for automation |