macOS Sierra: Start up in safe mode

Start up in safe mode

Starting up in safe mode may help you diagnose problems you’re having with your Mac.

Important: To print these instructions, click the Share button in the Help window, then choose Print.

  1. Choose Apple menu > Shut Down.

  2. After your Mac shuts down, wait 10 seconds, then press the power button.

  3. Immediately after you hear the startup tone, press and hold the Shift key.

    You should press the Shift key as soon as possible after you hear the startup tone, but not before.

  4. Release the Shift key when you see the gray Apple logo and progress indicator.

To leave safe mode, restart your Mac again, but don’t press and hold any keys during startup.

Last Modified: Sep 26, 2016
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