How to Use Your Mac’s Built-In Diagnostic Tool

Technical issues are bound to happen no matter how well-designed a computer may be. This means that even if you’re using a Mac, you’re going to experience some tech problems sooner or later.

Software Issues vs. Hardware Issues

Software issues can typically be dealt with by simply restarting your Mac or by updating your computer to see if Apple has already gotten them fixed for you.

However, if you’re dealing with hardware issues, you’ll want to use Apple Diagnostics. This feature allows you to scan your device for faulty hardware. The test results should indicate the hardware issues that need to be fixed.

How to Use Apple Diagnostics

Place your Mac on a hard and flat surface and keep it well-ventilated.
Turn it off and disconnect all of its external devices except for the mouse, keyboard, power connection, and Ethernet connection if you have one.
Next, turn off the firmware passwords that your computer is using.

For Mac Computers with Intel Processor

Turn your Mac on by pressing the Power button.
Press and hold the D key on your keyboard immediately after.
Release the D key as soon as you see the progress bar, a small globe, and a message that tells you your computer is searching for an internet connection or a message that prompts you to choose a language.

For M1 Mac Computers

Turn on your device and keep on holding the Power button while it starts.
Release the Power button once the startup options appear.
Lastly, be sure to press the Command Key (⌘) + D.

As soon as you’re into the Apple Diagnostics screen, you’ll be asked if you’re willing to share your Mac’s hardware and software specifications, device identifiers, and usage information with Apple. You may click on Agree or the option Run offline.

If there’s nothing wrong with your computer, you should see a message that says there were no issues found. However, if the test results have identified some faulty hardware, a list of Reference Codes should appear on your screen. You can learn more about these codes and get possible solutions to the technical issues by going to the Apple Diagnostics reference codes web page.