How to Reset SMC on Mac
This article applies to Intel-based Mac computers, and provides a useful troubleshooting procedure.
Mac with Apple silicon computers do not have an SMC. If you have a Mac with an M1, M2, M3 or later Apple silicon chip, this article does not apply.
If you are not sure which kind of Mac you have, check out our SweetCare article How to tell if you have an Intel-based Mac or a Mac with Apple silicon.
Learn more at the Apple support article Reset the SMC of your Mac.
Overview
The System Management Controller (SMC) is a chip on the logic board that controls all power functions for your computer. If your computer is experiencing any power issue, resetting the SMC may resolve it. The SMC controls several functions, including:
- Telling the computer when to turn on, turn off, sleep, wake, idle, and so forth.
- Handling system resets from various commands.
- Controlling the fans.
Note: Resetting the SMC does not reset the PRAM and will not resolve issues in which your computer is unresponsive. In these situations, restarting your computer will generally suffice.
Before an SMC Reset…
1. Force Quit all apps (Option-Command-Escape).
2. Restart your Mac (Control-Command-Power).
3. Force Shut Down your Mac (press the power button for 10 seconds).
Resetting the SMC can resolve some computer issues such as not starting up, not displaying video, sleep issues, fan noise issues, and so forth. If your computer still exhibits these types of issues after you’ve restarted the computer, try resetting the SMC.
How to Reset SMC
Reset SMC for Mac laptops with a removable battery
Note: Learn about removing the battery on MacBook and MacBook Pro.
1. Shut down the computer.
2. Disconnect the MagSafe power adapter from the computer, if it’s connected.
3. Remove the battery.
4. Press and hold the power button for 5 seconds.
5. Release the power button.
6. Reconnect the battery and MagSafe power adapter.
7. Press the power button to turn on the computer.
Reset SMC for Mac laptops with a non-removable battery
Note: Portable computers that have a battery you should not remove on your own include MacBook Pro (Early 2009) and later, all models of MacBook Air, and MacBook (Late 2009).
1. Shut down the computer.
2. Plug in the MagSafe power adapter to a power source, connecting it to the Mac if its not already connected.
3. On the built-in keyboard, press the (left side) Shift-Control-Option keys and the power button at the same time.
4. Release all the keys and the power button at the same time.
5. Press the power button to turn on the computer.
Note: The LED on the MagSafe power adapter may change states or temporarily turn off when you reset the SMC.
Reset SMC for Mac desktops
1. Shut down the computer.
2. Unplug the computer’s power cord.
3. Wait fifteen seconds.
4. Attach the computer’s power cord.
5. Wait five seconds, then press the power button to turn on the computer.
Note: For Intel-based Xserve computers that are not responding, you can shut down locally, or by using remote commands, or by pressing and holding the power button for five seconds.
Helpful Links
Resolving Audio Interface Issues on Mac
Mac Optimization Guide for macOS 10.13 High Sierra
How do I disable display mirroring on my Mac/PC?
How do I find my computer’s specs?
Is my Apple device covered by AppleCare?
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