Finding faults.
WHAT TO CHECK FIRST
Whether it affects one user or all Whether it started after a change Whether restarting resolves it
WHAT SAFE MODE DOES
Starts with minimal extensions and clears certain caches.
WHAT THAT DISTINGUISHES
A core system fault from one caused by installed software.
WHAT RECOVERY MODE PROVIDES
Disk repair, reinstallation, and terminal access when the system will not start.
WHAT THE ACTIVITY MONITOR SHOWS
Processes, and their processor, memory, energy, disk and network use.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
A single process consuming disproportionately Memory pressure Unexpected network activity
WHAT THE CONSOLE SHOWS
System logs, which are extensive and require filtering.
WHAT TO FILTER BY
The process, and the time of the problem.
WHAT TO CHECK FOR STARTUP PROBLEMS
Login items and loaded background definitions.
WHAT TO CHECK FOR PERMISSION PROBLEMS
The privacy settings, which govern access to files, camera, microphone and control of other applications.
WHY THAT MATTERS MOST NOW
Many apparent faults are consent that was never granted.
WHAT TO DO WHEN A PROCESS IS UNRESPONSIVE
Force it to quit, rather than powering off.
