[SOLVED] 2024 Mac Won’t Start in Safe Mode?

Is your Mac refusing to start in Safe Mode? Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered. This comprehensive guide walks you through step-by-step solutions to get your Mac back on track. Let’s dive in!

What is Safe Mode and Why You Need It

Safe Mode is a Mac diagnostic mode that starts with only essential system software and disables certain features. This mode helps you identify and fix issues causing your Mac to misbehave. Safe Mode is crucial when troubleshooting problems without loading unnecessary files and processes.

Basic Troubleshooting Steps

Check Your Keyboard

Before diving into more advanced solutions, ensure your keyboard functions correctly. Make sure it’s properly connected and that the keys are responsive.

Enter Safe Mode Correctly

To enter Safe Mode on a Mac, follow these steps:

1. Shut down your Mac
2. Press and hold the Shift key
3. Turn on your Mac while still having the Shift key
4. Release the Shift key when you see the Apple logo

Verify You’re in Safe Mode

Once your Mac has booted, confirm that you’re in Safe Mode by looking for the words “Safe Boot” in the top-right corner of your screen.

Advanced Troubleshooting Methods

Reset NVRAM/PRAM

Non-volatile random-access memory (NVRAM) and parameter RAM (PRAM) store specific settings on your Mac. Resetting them can help resolve boot issues.

1. Shut down your Mac
2. Press and hold the Option, Command, P, and R keys
3. Turn on your Mac while holding these keys
4. Release the keys after you hear the startup chime or see the Apple logo

Disconnect All Peripherals

External devices connected to your Mac can sometimes cause issues. Disconnect all peripherals, such as external drives and USB devices, and try booting into Safe Mode again.

Check Your Startup Disk

If your Mac doesn’t start in Safe Mode, check the startup disk for errors by running First Aid in Disk Utility.

1. Boot your Mac in Recovery Mode by holding Command and R keys during startup.
2. Select Disk Utility and click Continue
3. Choose your startup disk and click First Aid
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to repair your disk, if necessary

Repair Your Startup Disk

If First Aid in Disk Utility didn’t fix the issue, you might need to repair your startup disk using Terminal.

1. Boot your Mac in Recovery Mode by holding Command and R keys during startup.
2. Select Utilities and then Terminal
3. Type “fsck -fy” and press Enter
4. Wait for the process to complete and follow any on-screen instructions

Reinstall macOS

If none of the previous solutions worked, reinstalling macOS might be necessary. This process won’t erase your files, but it’s still a good idea to back up your data before proceeding.

1. Boot your Mac in Recovery Mode by holding Command and R keys during startup.
2. Select Reinstall macOS and click Continue
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to reinstall macOS

Reset the System Management Controller (SMC)

The SMC manages various hardware components in your Mac; resetting it can help resolve boot issues.

For Macs with a T2 security chip:

1. Shut down your Mac
2. Press and hold the Power button for 10 seconds
3. Release the button and wait a few seconds
4. Turn on your Mac

For Macs without a T2 security chip:

1. Shut down your Mac
2. Press and hold Shift, Control, Option, and the Power button
3. Release all keys simultaneously after 10 seconds
4. Turn on your Mac

FAQs

What is Safe Mode on a Mac?

Safe Mode is a diagnostic mode that starts your Mac with only essential system software and disables certain features. It helps you identify and fix issues causing your Mac to misbehave.

Why is my Mac not starting in Safe Mode?

Several reasons might prevent your Mac from starting in Safe Mode, such as a faulty keyboard, issues with the startup disk, or incorrect boot key combinations. Follow the troubleshooting steps in this guide to resolve the issue.

How do I boot my Mac in Safe Mode?

To boot your Mac in Safe Mode, shut it down, press and hold the Shift key, turn on your Mac while holding the Shift key, and release the Shift key when you see the Apple logo.

How do I exit Safe Mode on my Mac?

To exit Safe Mode, restart your Mac without holding any keys during the startup process.

Can I reinstall macOS without losing data?

Yes, reinstalling macOS without erasing your files is possible. However, it’s always a good idea to back up your data before performing any major system operation.