MacOS: Kernel Panic - what to do?
In rare cases it can happen that a so-called "Kernel Panic" occurs under Mac OS X. In this practical tip we will show you how to fix these error messages without problems and how to avoid them in the future.
Kernel Panic error message on Mac
If your Mac spontaneously reboots, shuts down, shows you the error message "You have to restart your computer ...", or stops responding, this indicates that a kernel panic has occurred.
- A kernel panic is an error message from the operating system kernel that is displayed when the system is in an undefined state and there is no longer any way for you to continue operating the system in a controlled manner.
- As a rule, kernel errors are not caused by the Mac, but by external problems. A kernel error is fixed by restarting the system. If there is no renewed kernel panic within the next few weeks, you do not have to take any further steps.
- You can avoid kernel panics by installing all available system updates until the message "Your software is up to date" is displayed. OS X updates improve the automatic handling of external problems and can prevent kernel errors.
Instructions: Fix Kernel Panic under OS X Lion and older
On your Mac with the operating version "Lion" or older there is most likely a kernel error if you get the error message "You have to restart your computer. To do this, press and hold the on / off switch or choose to restart -Button." or your Mac has stopped responding. If this is the case, follow the instructions to fix the kernel error.
- To turn off your Mac, press and hold the power button for several seconds.
- Turn on your Mac and, as soon as it restarts, hold down the Shift key to start your computer in Safe Mode.
- If your Mac can be operated in safe mode without kernel panic after starting, restart your Mac normally by selecting the "Apple" and "Restart" menu.
- However, if you experience additional kernel panics when you start your Mac or in secure mode, you should take your Mac to an Apple Store or an authorized Apple service provider.
Kernel Panic: problem solving under OS X Mountain Lion
If you have a Mac with the operating version OS X "Mountain Lion", there are two symptoms that speak for a kernel panic. So the Mac will automatically restart or it will show you a prohibition sign for 30 seconds and then turn itself off. If the Mac just turns off automatically, follow the instructions below. However, if the second case occurs, jump directly to the sixth point.
- As soon as your Mac restarts and no further kernel panic occurs, you will see the following message for a few seconds: "Your computer has restarted due to a problem. Press a key to continue or wait a few seconds".
- During the startup process, an Apple logo and a spinning gear are displayed, and you receive the error message "You have shut down your computer due to a problem." displayed for one minute.
- Select the "Open" option before the time shown has expired to open the programs that were active at the time of the kernel panic.
- After logging in, you will receive the message "Your computer was restarted due to a problem" Click the Report button below the note to view details about the Panioc kernel.
- In a further step, the Mac shows you all the problem details and system configurations. Select the "Send to Apple" option and confirm your selection with "OK" to end the process.
- If you continue to experience kernel panics, or your Mac shows you a prohibition sign and then turns itself off, it is also advisable to take your Mac to an Apple store or authorized Apple service provider.
If you need to bring your Mac to an Apple Store, you should make an appointment online at the Apple Store.