Step 1: Shut Down Your Mac
The first step in starting your Mac in safe mode is to shut it down completely. To do this, click on the Apple menu in the top left corner of your screen and select “Shut Down.”
Step 2: Start Your Mac in Safe Mode
To start your Mac in safe mode, press and hold the Shift key as soon as you hear the startup sound. Keep holding the Shift key until you see the Apple logo on the screen.
Step 3: Log In
Once your Mac has started up in safe mode, you’ll need to log in as you normally would. However, you might notice that the login process takes longer than usual. This is normal, as your Mac is performing some additional checks and optimizations in safe mode.
What Is Safe Mode?
Now that you know how to start in safe mode on Mac, you might be wondering what safe mode actually is. Safe mode is a special mode that your Mac can start up in that disables some of the built-in software and drivers that might be causing problems. When you start your Mac in safe mode, it only loads the essential software and drivers that are necessary for it to run.
When Should You Use Safe Mode?
You should use safe mode when you’re experiencing problems with your Mac that you can’t seem to fix otherwise. For example, if your Mac is freezing or crashing frequently, starting up in safe mode can help you determine if the problem is caused by a third-party app or driver.
What Does Safe Mode Do?
When you start your Mac in safe mode, it performs some additional checks and optimizations that can help you diagnose and fix problems with your Mac. Here are some of the things that safe mode does:
- Disables all startup items
- Prevents third-party drivers and startup daemons from loading
- Deletes system caches
- Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair any issues
How to Exit Safe Mode
When you’re ready to exit safe mode, simply restart your Mac as you normally would. To do this, click on the Apple menu and select “Restart.” Your Mac will restart in normal mode, and all of the software and drivers that were disabled in safe mode will be enabled again.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about how to start in safe mode on Mac:
Q: Can I Use Safe Mode to Fix Any Problem with My Mac?
A: No. Safe mode is a troubleshooting step that can help you diagnose and fix specific problems with your Mac. It’s not a cure-all solution for all of your Mac’s problems.
Q: Will Safe Mode Delete Any of My Files?
A: No. Starting your Mac in safe mode won’t delete any of your files or data.
Q: How Long Does It Take to Start Up in Safe Mode?
A: Starting up in safe mode can take longer than usual, as your Mac is performing some additional checks and optimizations. However, the exact amount of time it takes can vary depending on your specific Mac and the issues it’s experiencing.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to start in safe mode on Mac, you can use this troubleshooting step to diagnose and fix problems with your Mac. Whether you’re experiencing frequent crashes, freezing, or other issues, safe mode can help you determine if the problem is caused by third-party software or drivers. So if you’re having trouble with your Mac, give safe mode a try and see if it helps you get things back on track.