TendStartup guide
Start a Mac in safe mode: Apple silicon and Intel steps
Use the correct safe-mode startup procedure, compare a repeatable symptom, then return to a normal startup.
Identify the Mac before restarting
Choose Apple menu > About This Mac. A Chip entry identifies Apple silicon; a Processor entry naming Intel identifies an Intel Mac. Save work, note the symptom you intend to repeat and keep these instructions available on another device if needed.
On a managed work or school Mac, startup policies may affect what is available. Ask the administrator if you cannot access the expected options rather than changing startup security.
On Apple silicon
- Shut down and wait until the Mac is fully off.
- Hold the power button until startup options appear.
- Select the startup volume.
- Hold Shift and choose Continue in Safe Mode.
- Log in when asked.
On an Intel Mac
- Turn on or restart the Mac.
- Immediately hold Shift until the login window appears.
- Log in; macOS may ask you to log in a second time.
Look for Safe Boot at login. Apple also documents checking Boot Mode under Software in System Information if you need to confirm which mode is running.
Compare one symptom, then restart normally
Repeat a small version of the failing task and record exactly what happens. Keep expectations narrow: some features behave differently in safe mode, so a performance difference alone is not an app diagnosis. Restart without holding keys to return to normal operation, then repeat the same test.
For example, “The app opens in safe mode and fails again after a normal restart” is more useful than “safe mode fixed everything.” Use that result to review startup software or contact the app’s developer. Change one item at a time.
When this is not the right next step
If the Mac cannot reach startup options, repeatedly powers off, or displays a disk error, follow Apple’s startup or repair guidance. Safe mode does not replace a backup or hardware assessment. You do not need Tend to use it, and Tend cannot put the Mac into safe mode for you.
Sources and further reading
Reviewed October 19, 2026 against the linked documentation. Menu names and capabilities vary by macOS version and device; these guides have not been physically tested on every supported Mac.