What are the most common macOS operating system issues and how can you troubleshoot them?

MacOS is one of the most popular operating systems in the world, known for its user-friendly interface, security features, and compatibility with Apple devices. However, like any other software, it can sometimes encounter problems that affect its performance, functionality, or stability. In this article, we will explore some of the most common macOS operating system issues and how you can troubleshoot them using simple methods and tools.

Find expert answers in this collaborative article

Selected by the community from 2 contributions. Learn more

1 Slow startup or shutdown

One of the most annoying issues that can affect your macOS experience is a slow startup or shutdown. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as too many applications running at startup, insufficient disk space, corrupted files, or outdated software. To troubleshoot this issue, you should check your startup items and disable any unnecessary ones by going to System Preferences > Users & Groups > Login Items and unchecking the ones you don't need. Furthermore, you should clean up your disk space by deleting or moving files that you don't use frequently using the Storage Management tool. Additionally, it is recommended to repair your disk permissions and verify your disk health with the Disk Utility app. Lastly, ensure that your software is up to date by going to Apple menu > System Preferences > Software Update and clicking on Update Now. Doing all these steps can improve your system performance and security, as well as fix any bugs or glitches that may cause slow startup or shutdown.

Add your perspective

Claudinez Andrade

Analista de Cloud Júnior | Desenvolvedor Júnior | Desenvolvedor Júnior com foco em RPA/IA | Analista de Dados Júnior | Análise de dados com IA em ambientes cloud
Report contribution
1- Segurança: Vulnerabilidades de segurança podem surgir devido a falhas na implementação de algoritmos de IA ou devido a bugs no código do sistema operacional. 2- Compatibilidade de hardware: Nem todos os dispositivos podem ser compatíveis com as tecnologias de IA integradas ao sistema operacional, o que pode resultar em problemas de funcionamento ou desempenho inadequado. 3- Atualizações de software: As atualizações de software para sistemas operacionais alimentados por IA devem ser cuidadosamente gerenciadas para garantir que novos algoritmos ou modelos de IA sejam implementados de forma eficaz e que não causem conflitos com outros componentes do sistema.

Translated

Like

2 Wi-Fi or Bluetooth issues

Another common issue that can affect your macOS experience is a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connection problem, which can be caused by interference, distance, hardware failure, or software conflict. To troubleshoot this issue, you can try turning off and on your device and Mac, checking your network settings for compatibility, forgetting and reconnecting your device, and updating your drivers and firmware. Doing so can help reset the connection, clear any cached data, and improve device performance and compatibility. To accomplish this, go to System Preferences > Network and select your Wi-Fi or Bluetooth device from the sidebar. Then click on Advanced to review the options and parameters; click on the minus sign (-) at the bottom to forget the device; click on the plus sign (+) to add it again; and check the manufacturer's website for the latest updates.

Add your perspective

3 Kernel panic

A kernel panic is a serious system error that can affect your macOS experience, resulting in a sudden restart, a frozen screen, or a message telling you to restart your Mac. It can occur due to faulty hardware, incompatible software, malware, or corrupted files. To troubleshoot this issue, you can try restarting your Mac in safe mode (hold down the Shift key while it boots up until you see the Apple logo, then release the key and wait for the login screen). Uninstall or update any recently installed or modified software to eliminate any software conflict or compatibility issues. Additionally, run a malware scan and remove any suspicious or harmful files to protect your Mac from malicious software. Lastly, reset your NVRAM and SMC (the method varies depending on your Mac model). By following these steps, you can help isolate the cause of the kernel panic and fix any minor issues.

Add your perspective

4 Battery or power issues

A battery or power problem is a common issue that can affect your macOS experience. This can be caused by aging, damage, calibration, or settings. To troubleshoot this issue, you should check your battery status and health using the built-in Battery menu or the System Information app. This can help you monitor your battery capacity, cycle count, condition, and temperature. Additionally, you should calibrate your battery every few months or when you notice any issues to improve accuracy and performance. To save energy and reduce stress on your battery, optimize your power settings and usage. Finally, if your battery is damaged, swollen, or defective, you should contact Apple or an authorized service provider to replace it.

Add your perspective

Mohammad Hassan Arvinfar

Microsoft dynamics CRM Developer
Report contribution
One solution for battery or power issues in macOS is to reset the System Management Controller (SMC). To do this, follow these steps: 1. Shut down your Mac. 2. Unplug the power adapter. 3. Press and hold the Shift + Control + Option keys on the left side of the built-in keyboard, then press the power button at the same time. Hold these keys and the power button for 10 seconds. 4. Release all keys and the power button. 5. Reconnect the power adapter and turn on your Mac. This should reset the SMC and may help resolve any battery or power-related issues you are experiencing.

Like

5 App crashes or freezes

Troubleshooting a macOS app crash or freeze can be tricky, as there are various reasons for it, such as software bugs, memory leaks, system overload, or compatibility issues. To address this issue, you can try force quitting the app and relaunching it. This can help terminate any unresponsive or problematic processes and free up some resources. You can also clear the app cache and preferences to remove any corrupted or outdated data. Additionally, you should update the app to the latest version to improve its performance and stability. If the app is still crashing or freezing, you may need to reinstall it to restore it to its original state and resolve any installation or configuration issues.

Add your perspective

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

Add your perspective

What are the most common macOS operating system issues and how can you troubleshoot them?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Slow startup or shutdown

2 Wi-Fi or Bluetooth issues

3 Kernel panic

4 Battery or power issues

5 App crashes or freezes

6 Here’s what else to consider

Operating Systems

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

More articles on Operating Systems

More relevant reading

What are the most common macOS operating system issues and how can you troubleshoot them?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Slow startup or shutdown

2 Wi-Fi or Bluetooth issues

3 Kernel panic

4 Battery or power issues

5 App crashes or freezes

6 Here’s what else to consider

Operating Systems

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

Explore Other Skills