This can be useful when you use the same few programs every time. Check Startup programsĮvery computer has the ability to start up selected programs when the computer is turned on.

Once you know what is taking up your storage space, it is easier to have a discussion about what your options are to clear out some space. If you click on the word Manage, you will be taken to a list of recommendations which you can then step through. The dark grey Other section is generally the operating system and backups.

By hovering your mouse over a section, you can see the name and the exact measurement of that section. The graph displayed will show you the total storage, the amount used, and a general idea of the kinds of files using this storage.

Click on the Apple icon to open the menu.So, the next step to check your Mac is to see how much storage space you have, and what is currently in use. If your computer is using most of its built in storage space, this can cause it to slow down and experience errors. Rarely, but sometimes, you will need to do this several times to get an error to clear itself. Occasionally, the computer will need to be forced to shut down by holding down the power button for several seconds. It does not have to be daily, but possibly weekly, and it is always the first thing we do when there is any issue. For this reason, it is useful to fully shut down your computer routinely. There are many internal cleanup routines that only happen when a computer shuts down. There is a big difference between what the computer does when it goes to sleep, and what it does when it shuts down or restarts (shut down plus start again). Here is the list of actions that we would start with to help someone check their Mac, followed by detailed steps for each.īefore running any repair steps, please make sure your computer is backed up. While it is still rare for a Macintosh computer to have an actual virus, there are many malware programs, and other things that can slow down your Mac. Have you wondered how to check your Mac if it is running slow or you are experiencing pop ups? Often a client will come to the SDM Shop and say one of the following:

How to check your macbook for viruses