The Apple macOS Blog

It is frustrating and worrying when your Mac won't start up properly. But you're in luck because there are several ways to get your Mac up and running again. Let's go!

Most common Mac startup issues

1. Mac won't turn on
2. Slow startup
3. Blank or blue screen at startup

Troubleshooting Steps

Here's Maria's 9 troubleshooting steps to help you get your Mac up and running again:

1. Check the Power Source

First, make sure your Mac is properly connected to a power source:

• Ensure the power cable is securely plugged in
• Try a different power outlet
• Check if the power adapter is working (look for the indicator light)

For MacBooks, make sure the battery isn't completely drained.

2. Perform a Power Cycle

If your Mac still won't turn on:

1. Unplug all accessories
2. Hold the power button for 10 seconds
3. Wait another 10 seconds
4. Try turning it on again

3. Check the Display

If you're using an external display:

• Verify it's connected to power and turned on
• Ensure it's properly connected to your Mac
• Try a different display if possible

4. Reset NVRAM and SMC

Resetting these can often resolve startup issues:

For Intel Macs:

1. Shut down your Mac
2. Turn it on and immediately press and hold Command + Option + P + R
3. Release after 20 seconds or when you hear the startup sound twice

For Apple Silicon Macs, NVRAM resets automatically when needed so you don't need to do anything.

5. Boot in Safe Mode

Safe Mode can help identify if the problem is caused by software:

For Intel Macs:

1. Restart and hold the Shift key
2. Release when you see the login screen

For Apple Silicon Macs:

1. Shut down and hold the power button
2. Release when you see "Loading startup options"
3. Select your startup disk and hold Shift
4. Click "Continue in Safe Mode"

6. Run Disk Utility's First Aid

To check and repair disk issues:

1. Restart in Recovery Mode (Command + R at startup)
2. Select Disk Utility
3. Choose your startup disk
4. Click "First Aid" and follow the prompts

7. Update macOS and Apps

Keeping your system and applications up-to-date can prevent many startup issues:

1. Go to System Preferences > Software Update
2. Install any available updates
3. Update your apps through the App Store or their respective websites

8. Disable Login Items

Some startup apps might be causing issues:

1. Go to System Preferences > Users & Groups
2. Select your user account
3. Click "Login Items"
4. Remove unnecessary items

9. Reinstall macOS

As a last resort, you can perform a clean install of macOS:

1. Back up your data
2. Boot into Recovery Mode
3. Use Disk Utility to erase your startup disk
4. Select "Reinstall macOS" and follow the prompts

You should be able to resolve most Mac startup problems by systematically following the above troubleshooting steps. Remember to always back up your data regularly to prevent loss in case of severe issues. If you're still having trouble after trying these solutions it be time to consult with an Apple genius or certified technician.

❤️ Maria