Restarting a Mac in safe mode is a trusted method to diagnose issues related to the startup process. Safe mode, also known as safe boot, loads the operating system without any unnecessary programs or extensions which could be causing problems. This can be particularly useful when a Mac is not starting up as it normally does, or when the system is behaving unpredictably.
Safe mode also performs a check of the startup disk, so it can not only help with troubleshooting but also with disk repair. Starting a Mac in safe mode varies slightly depending on if the computer uses Apple silicon or an Intel processor. In any case, the process is straightforward and can lead to resolving issues that prevent the Mac from operating smoothly.
Restart Mac in Safe Mode: A Step-by-Step Guide
Starting your Mac in Safe Mode is a powerful troubleshooting step when your computer is running slowly, freezing, or behaving unexpectedly. Safe Mode limits what macOS loads at startup, helping you identify and fix software-related issues.
This guide walks you through what Safe Mode is, when to use it, and how to restart any Mac in Safe Mode, including both Apple silicon and Intel-based models.
What Is Safe Mode on Mac?
Safe Mode (also called Safe Boot) starts macOS with only essential system components. When your Mac starts in Safe Mode, it:
- Checks your startup disk for errors
- Loads only required system extensions
- Disables third-party startup items and login items
- Clears certain system caches
If a problem doesn’t occur in Safe Mode, it’s likely caused by a third‑party app, extension, or login item.
When Should You Use Safe Mode?
Use Safe Mode if your Mac is experiencing:
- Slow startup or shutdown
- Frequent crashes or freezes
- Apps that won’t open
- Display issues
- Kernel panics
- Problems after installing new software
How to Restart a Mac in Safe Mode
The steps depend on whether your Mac uses Apple silicon (M1, M2, M3, etc.) or an Intel processor.
✅ Safe Mode on Apple Silicon Macs (M1, M2, M3, and newer)
- Shut down your Mac completely
- Click Apple menu > Shut Down, and wait until the screen turns off.
- Press and hold the Power button
- Keep holding it until you see “Loading startup options.”
- Select your startup disk
- Usually labeled Macintosh HD.
- Hold the Shift key, then click Continue in Safe Mode
- Log in to your Mac
- You may need to log in twice. This is normal in Safe Mode.
✅ You’ll see “Safe Mode” in the menu bar once macOS finishes loading.
✅ Safe Mode on Intel-Based Macs
- Restart or power on your Mac
- Immediately press and hold the Shift key
- Release the Shift key when you see the login window
- Log in to your Mac
✅ The words “Safe Boot” will appear in the menu bar if Safe Mode is active.
How to Exit Safe Mode
Exiting Safe Mode is simple:
- Click the Apple menu
- Select Restart
- Let your Mac start normally (do not hold any keys)
Your Mac will return to its standard startup mode.
What to Do After Starting in Safe Mode
Once in Safe Mode, try the following:
- Open apps to see if the issue still occurs
- Remove recently installed apps or extensions
- Check System Settings > General > Login Items and disable unnecessary items
- Run Disk Utility > First Aid
- Update macOS and installed apps
If the issue does not occur in Safe Mode but returns after restarting normally, a third‑party app is likely the cause.
Safe Mode Limitations
While in Safe Mode, some features may not work, including:
- Wi‑Fi or Bluetooth (may be limited)
- Graphics acceleration
- Video playback
- Certain USB or Thunderbolt devices
This is expected behavior.
Final Thoughts
Restarting your Mac in Safe Mode is one of the easiest and most effective ways to troubleshoot macOS issues. Whether you’re using an Apple silicon or Intel-based Mac, Safe Mode can help you identify problems and restore stability.
Key Takeaways
- Safe mode helps diagnose startup issues on a Mac.
- It performs a disk check and prevents non-essential programs from loading.
- The process for entering safe mode differs between Apple silicon and Intel Macs.
Preparing to Start Mac in Safe Mode
Before attempting to start your Mac in Safe Mode, it’s important to understand the requirements and functions. This ensures a smooth process and helps you troubleshoot issues more effectively.
Checking System Requirements
Starting your Mac in Safe Mode begins by confirming your Mac type. This is crucial as the steps differ between Apple Silicon Macs and Intel-based Macs.
- Apple Silicon Macs: First, make certain your Mac is completely powered off. Only then should you proceed.
- Intel Macs: You can start from either an off state or during a reboot.
You can check your Mac type by selecting the Apple menu and clicking About This Mac. The details there provide the information you need.
Understanding Safe Mode Functions
Safe Mode on a Mac performs checks during startup. It verifies your startup disk and loads only essential kernel extensions. It also disables third-party fonts and clears certain caches, such as system cache and kernel cache. This is like giving your Mac a fresh start.
Here’s what Safe Mode does:
- Scans the disk: It checks for file system issues that could be causing problems.
- Blocks startup and login items: Apps that usually open automatically won’t do this in Safe Mode.
- Disables third-party fonts: Only fonts that come with your Mac remain active.
- Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and system cache: This helps remove corrupted data which may resolve performance issues.
By understanding these functions, you prepare to troubleshoot software and hardware issues effectively. Safe Mode helps identify problems by limiting what runs on your Mac. This makes it a valuable first step in the troubleshooting process.
Steps to Restart Mac in Safe Mode
When your Mac starts acting up, restarting it in Safe Mode can be a helpful troubleshooting step. This special boot mode performs certain checks and prevents some software from automatically loading or opening.
Restart Process for Intel-Based Macs
For MacBooks with Intel processors, the restart in Safe Mode is straightforward. First, shut down the Mac. Then, power it on and immediately press and hold the Shift key. When you see the Apple logo, you know the process has started. Let go of the Shift key when the login window appears. You should enter your password and move forward. With this done, your Mac should now be in Safe Mode.
Restart Process for Apple Silicon Macs
Apple Silicon Macs like the M1 MacBooks need different steps. First, shut down your device. Hold down the power button until the Startup Options appear. Click the gear icon labeled Options. Next, select a volume. Press and hold the Shift key and click “Continue in Safe Mode”. Then release the Shift key. After logging in, your Mac should be operating in Safe Mode.
