Even powerful machines like Apple computers aren’t immune to occasional glitches, screen freezes, or complete operating system hiccups. No matter what might have triggered these issues in your macOS, a simple restart usually does the trick, restoring normalcy. But what do you do if your Mac refuses to acknowledge the shutdown command, even after attempting a reboot?
In some rare cases, your Mac’s screen might freeze entirely, rendering your cursor immobile and preventing you from initiating a restart or shutdown.
These uncommon situations could catch you off guard. So, let’s delve into what steps you should take when your Mac won’t power down.
Fix Mac Won’t Shut Down
1. Click and hold your Mac’s power button until the screen goes blank. This will force the operating system to restart. You may hear a clicking sound when the monitor turns off.
If it’s a MacBook, the button will be located on the integrated keyboard in the upper right corner area. If it’s an iMac, the button will be behind the monitor. If it’s a Mac Mini or Pro, the button will be on the back of the machine.
2. Wait at least 30 seconds to 1 minute before turning your Mac back on.
3. This step is suggestive. If you want to test if your computer is back to normal, wait for it to restart normally and then shut it down correctly by clicking on the apple icon in the menu bar and then “Shut down.”
Encountering a situation where your Mac won’t shut down can be perplexing, but it’s not an insurmountable problem.
Following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide can often resolve the issue and bring your Mac back to normal functioning. Remember, patience and a systematic approach can go a long way in tackling technical glitches on your Apple computer.
