Mac: how to use Safe Mode
Safe Mode starts your Mac with only the essentials. It can help when the Mac is slow, crashing or will not start normally, because it stops extra items from loading. It does not delete your files.
Before you start
Make sure your Mac is plugged in. If you can start normally, it is a good idea to back up first. See our Time Machine guide.
Start in Safe Mode on a Mac with Apple silicon
Most Macs from late 2020 onward use Apple silicon (M1, M2 and later).
- Shut down your Mac completely.
- Press and hold the power button until you see Loading startup options.
- Choose your startup disc.
- Hold down the Shift key, then click Continue in Safe Mode.
- Release the Shift key and log in.
Start in Safe Mode on an Intel Mac
- Shut down, then press the power button.
- Immediately press and hold the Shift key.
- Let go when you see the login window.
- You may be asked to log in twice.
Check you are in Safe Mode
The words Safe Boot appear in red in the top right of the login window. You can also open the Apple menu, hold Option, choose System Information and look for Boot Mode: Safe.
What to expect
Your Mac will be slower, graphics may look rough, and some features such as certain Wi-Fi or video apps may not work. This is normal.
What to try inside Safe Mode
- See if the problem you had has gone. If it has, a start-up app is likely the cause.
- Check Login Items in System Settings, General.
- Run Software Update if the internet works.
Leaving Safe Mode
Restart the Mac normally, without holding any keys.
When to get more help
Contact us if the Mac will not start even in Safe Mode, if the problem comes straight back after restarting, or if you are not comfortable making changes. Do not erase or reinstall anything without a backup.