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How to Manage macOS Startup Items
Edited 3 weeks ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team
macOSStartup ItemsManagementOptimizationAppleComputerSystemSpeedPerformanceConfiguration
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The process of managing startup items on macOS is quite important to ensure that your computer starts up quickly and works smoothly. Startup items are programs, applications, or services that start automatically when you turn on your Mac, sometimes slowing down the boot-up process when too many run automatically. Knowing how to manage these items helps you control the software that launches at startup and maintain optimal operation of your device. This guide will introduce you to various steps and considerations for effectively managing startup items on macOS.
Understanding macOS startup items
First, it's important to understand what macOS startup items are and why they're important. Whenever you start your Mac, certain applications or services load automatically and run in the background. These startup items use system resources, and having too many startup items can slow down your Mac computer's boot time and overall performance.
Startup items can generally be classified into two types:
- User login items: These are applications and services that are specific to a user account and start when a particular user logs into their account on a Mac.
- System startup items: These are system-wide startup components that generally load essential services needed by the operating system and can run without a user being logged in.
Managing user login items
Managing user login items involves overseeing applications and services specific to your user account that start automatically at login. Here's how you can manage these items:
A step-by-step guide to managing user login items
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Open System Preferences: Click the Apple logo in the upper-left corner of your screen, and select "System Preferences" from the dropdown menu.
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Access to Users & Groups: Under System Preferences, select "Users & Groups." This will take you to a panel where you can view various settings related to user accounts.
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Select your user account: In the Users & Groups panel, you'll see a list of accounts on the left. If your account isn't already selected, select it.
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Go to Login Items: Click the "Login Items" tab to see a list of items that open automatically when you log in.
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Manage items: From here you can add or remove items:
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To remove an item: Select the application you do not want to start automatically, and click the "-" button at the bottom of the list.
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To add an item: Click the “+” button, navigate through your applications, select the one you want to add and click “Add”.
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By controlling user login items, you ensure that only essential applications run at startup, helping to avoid unwanted use of system resources and improve startup times.
Managing system startup items
Unlike user login items, system startup items usually require a bit more technical understanding to manage effectively because they involve system-level processes. These can sometimes include startup daemons and agents that contribute to various functions and services of macOS.
System-level management with care
It is important to handle system startup items with extra care. Changing or deleting essential system startup items can cause functionality issues. Here are suggested actions:
Steps to manage system startup items
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Check LaunchDaemons and LaunchAgents: Use Finder to navigate to
/Library/LaunchDaemonsand/Library/LaunchAgentsfolders. These directories contain plist files that point to startup services. -
Edit plist files if necessary: If you need to disable a service, consider moving the associated plist file to another location for backup instead of deleting it completely.
Another aspect of managing system startup items is to maintain awareness of third-party software installed on your system, as they can add startup components.
Make sure any changes at this stage are a well-thought-out decision, as system-wide changes affect the entire operating system. Only make changes if you understand the consequences or are following reliable guidance.
Alternative tools for managing startup items
For those who are less comfortable managing startup items manually, macOS and third-party applications provide alternative solutions for easier management.
Using third-party applications
Many third-party applications can help automate monitoring and management of startup items, providing user-friendly interfaces and additional functionality. Popular choices include:
- App Cleaner & Uninstaller: This software helps manage startup items and provides tools to completely uninstall applications from your Mac.
- CleanMyMac X: A comprehensive tool that cleans your Mac, including the ability to easily manage startup items in just a few clicks.
Although these tools offer convenience, still remember to download third-party software from reliable and trustworthy sources to protect your system from malicious software.
Monitoring changes over time
Once you have initially managed your startup items, it is beneficial to review them periodically to ensure that your preferences remain in line with your needs and that no unwanted items have been added.
Set up regular checkups
Consider setting regular intervals to check your startup items. Depending on how often you install new software, a monthly or quarterly check may be sufficient. During each check:
- Review if any new login items have been added without your permission.
- Make sure that no unnecessary system startup items are reinstalled.
By maintaining a schedule for monitoring and adjusting your startup items, you can ensure smooth performance and quick startup times for your Mac.
Conclusion
Managing macOS startup items is an essential part of maintaining the performance and health of your machine. By understanding and actively managing both user login and system startup items, you can optimize your start-up times and free up resources. This comprehensive approach ensures that your Mac runs efficiently, delivering a seamless user experience. Always exercise caution, especially when dealing with system startup items, and leverage third-party tools if they better serve your management needs. Through careful startup item management, you are better positioned to enjoy the full capabilities of your Mac without unnecessary slowdowns.
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