Apple’s extensive range of Macs is immensely popular worldwide because it is one of the best devices using which individuals can perform even the most demanding computational tasks with ease. Thanks to the seamless integration between the hardware and software of Macs, users get top-tier performance which facilitates them to use the powerful devices without hiccups. According to Gizmodo, the latest M1 Ultra chip present in different Mac variants is the most powerful chip in the world.
However, even with their powerful components, Macs exhibit certain problems after continuous years of usage. Even though most of the problems are not major, they hamper users’ productivity and prevent them from using their Macs to the best of their capabilities. This article will cover some of the most common problems Mac users face and how they fix the issues:
Startup Issues
After using their Macs for a while, users may start facing startup issues in their Macs. When this happens, it disrupts the routine of users and causes frustration. There are numerous reasons behind Mac not booting up. For instance, in the case of a MacBook, the battery may have died down, preventing the device from starting up. Similarly, there could be an issue with the power outlet. Moreover, a MAc may refuse to start because of internal issues. Here are two potential fixes users could try implementing to resolve the issue:
- Inspect the Power Source – If you are using a MacBook, check whether the battery is fully charged or not. Moreover, inspect the outlet where the charger is plugged in. In the case of a Mac Mini, Pro or Studio, ensure that all the wires are properly connected, and the outlet is working perfectly.
- Reset the Non-Volatile Random-Access Memory or NVRAM – If you own an Intel-based Mac, you can try resetting the NVRAM of your Mac by immediately pressing and holding the “Command”, “Option”, “P” and “R” keys together and releasing them after 20 seconds.
Slow Performance
Each Mac features powerful components that offer exceptional performance, so they do not generally exhibit a slow and laggy performance. However, if your Mac is performing slowly, and you are wondering, “How should I speed up my Mac” you can try out the following solutions to enhance your Mac’s performance:
- Close unnecessary Resource-Hogging Applications and Processes – One of the most effective ways of improving the performance of your Mac is to disable or force-stop all applications and processes that are using up more CPU resources and RAM than required. You can easily do this by using macOS’s native Activity Monitor to determine problematic apps and processes and shut them down. You can also use iStat Menus, a powerful third-party monitoring application that facilitates users to identify and disable resource-hogging processes.
- Scan for Viruses – Even though macOS is a very secure operating system that is not prone to malware attacks, some harmful files may have disguised themselves as useful ones. To scan your Mac for malware, you can use CleanMyMac X, a useful third-party application that features many scanning and virus-eliminating tools.
- Declutter Your Mac – Your Mac may be underperforming due to not having enough disk space for performing necessary processes smoothly. Hence, every once in a while, you should try deleting any file or folder you no longer require. Doing so will ensure that your hard drive or SSD has enough free space for internal functions to perform smoothly without interruptions.
- Download and Install the Latest Updates – Keeping your Mac up-to-date by installing the latest macOS updates is one of the most effective ways of ensuring that your Mac offers consistent, top-notch performance. Apple keeps rolling out new updates frequently to solve minor and bug-related problems. Hence, you should install new updates on your Mac as soon as they are available.
Applications Closing Abruptly and Crashing
There may arise instances when your Mac’s native applications or compatible third-party applications may start malfunctioning or crashing frequently. Based on the type of app-related issues you are facing, you can choose from one of the following methods to effectively solve them:
- Update the application – if a third-party application presents issues, it may be because the app is out-of-date and needs a fresh update. Hence, you should open the App Store and go to the app’s page to see whether a new update is available. If yes, downloading and installing it may solve the crashing issue.
- Check for new macOS updates – Like third-party apps, if a native macOS utility is exhibiting problems, you should try installing any newly-available patch update. Doing so might help the application perform normally.
If any of the issues mentioned above occur in your Mac, you can try solving them by implementing the fixes mentioned above. However, if more complicated problems arise, it would be best to get your Mac checked at an authorized Apple service center.