• If your MacBook or MacBook Pro is frozen and unresponsive, you likely just need to reset a few system settings.
  • In most cases, you can save yourself a trip to the Genius Bar with the 3 simple steps outlined below. Each step is linked to detailed instructions on Apple’s support site.
  • Be sure to disconnect all third-party peripherals, like USB keyboard and Bluetooth dongle before starting step 1.
  • If you haven’t already, shutdown by holding down the power button, wait 30 seconds, push the power button to turn your Mac on.

3 Steps to Fix Your Frozen Mac

1. Reset PRAM and NVRAM

  1. Shut down your Mac.
  2. Then, push (and release) the power button to turn it on, and immediately press and hold these four keys together: Option, Command, P, R (hold for 20s)
    How to Reset PRAM on MacBook
  3. Release the keys after ~20 seconds (your Mac may appear to restart)

Step by step instructions from Apple: How to Reset PRAM/NVRAM

2. Reset the System Management Controller (SMC)

  1. Turn off Mac.
  2. Press Shift–Control–Option on the left side of the built-in keyboard.
  3. Then, press the power button while still holding Shift-Control-Option. Hold these keys and the power button for 10 seconds.
  4. Release all keys.
  5. Press the power button again to turn on your Mac.

Step by step instructions: How to Reset SMC

3. Boot in Safe Mode

If you recently added software or change settings, you can boot the computer into Safe Mode and try removing/reverting any changes. Apple has detailed instructions for booting in Safe Mode. View Apple Instructions for Safe Mode

If after all these steps you are still unable to successfully boot your MacBook, it may be time to schedule a visit to your nearest Genius Bar. You can also contact us and we’ll be happy to help.

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