Bernard Aybouts - Blog - MiltonMarketing.com

FAQ: How Do I Reset the PRAM or SMC on My Mac?

FAQ

Approx read time: 2.8 min.

How Do I Reset the PRAM or SMC on My Mac? Resetting the PRAM (Parameter RAM) and SMC (System Management Controller) on a Mac can help resolve various hardware and system issues. Here’s how to reset both, but the specific steps can vary slightly depending on the Mac model you have.

Resetting PRAM (or NVRAM for newer Macs) – How Do I Reset the PRAM or SMC on My Mac?

  1. Shut down your Mac.
  2. Press the power button, then immediately press and hold the Option + Command + P + R keys.
  3. Hold these keys for about 20 seconds. On Macs that play a startup sound, you can release the keys after the second startup sound. On Macs with an Apple T2 Security Chip, you can release the keys after the Apple logo appears and disappears for the second time.
  4. Release the keys, and your Mac will continue starting up normally.

Resetting SMC on MacBooks with T2 Chip (2018 models and later) – How Do I Reset the PRAM or SMC on My Mac?

  1. Shut down your Mac.
  2. Press and hold the Control (left side) + Option (left side) + Shift (right side) keys.
  3. Keep holding all three keys for 7 seconds, then press and hold the power button as well. If your Mac is on, it will turn off as you hold the keys.
  4. Hold all four keys for another 7 seconds, then release them.
  5. Wait a few seconds, then press the power button to turn on your Mac.

Resetting SMC on MacBooks without T2 Chip (older models)

  1. Shut down your Mac.
  2. Press and hold the Shift + Control + Option on the left side of the built-in keyboard, then press the power button simultaneously.
  3. Hold these keys and the power button for 10 seconds.
  4. Release all keys, then press the power button again to turn on your Mac.

Resetting SMC on Mac Desktops (iMac, Mac Mini, Mac Pro)

  1. Shut down your Mac.
  2. Unplug the power cord.
  3. Wait 15 seconds, then plug the power cord back in.
  4. Wait 5 seconds, then press the power button to turn on your Mac.

Remember, the process can slightly differ for various models, especially for MacBooks with removable batteries (a category that’s become quite rare). If these steps do not match your model, or if you’re unsure about your model’s specifics, it’s a good idea to check Apple’s official support website or contact Apple Support directly for guidance tailored to your specific device.

Bernard Aybouts - Blog - MiltonMarketing.com

How Do I Reset the PRAM or SMC on My Mac keyboard combination

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About the Author: Bernard Aybout (Virii8)

Avatar of Bernard Aybout (Virii8)
I am a dedicated technology enthusiast with over 45 years of life experience, passionate about computers, AI, emerging technologies, and their real-world impact. As the founder of my personal blog, MiltonMarketing.com, I explore how AI, health tech, engineering, finance, and other advanced fields leverage innovation—not as a replacement for human expertise, but as a tool to enhance it. My focus is on bridging the gap between cutting-edge technology and practical applications, ensuring ethical, responsible, and transformative use across industries. MiltonMarketing.com is more than just a tech blog—it's a growing platform for expert insights. We welcome qualified writers and industry professionals from IT, AI, healthcare, engineering, HVAC, automotive, finance, and beyond to contribute their knowledge. If you have expertise to share in how AI and technology shape industries while complementing human skills, join us in driving meaningful conversations about the future of innovation. 🚀