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User profile for user: pmanders
pmanders Author
User level: Level 1
4 points

Login problems with Catalina

Since updating my MacBook Air to Catalina, I am stuck at the login screen. After entering my password, the status bar will show complete, but it will never actually take me to the desktop. It is strange because it will chime when receiving text or email, but won't show my desktop--it is just stock at the login screen.


I have since formatted my computer by erasing the HD from recovery mode and reinstalled the Catalina OS, but I still have the same issues. I've found that I can login after letting it get stuck at the login, wait for about 10 minutes, then force shutdown by holding power button, then immediately turning back on.

MacBook Air 13", macOS 10.15

Posted on Dec 21, 2019 6:50 PM

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User profile for user: HWTech
HWTech
User level: Level 9
60,278 points

Posted on Dec 21, 2019 8:10 PM

See if you can boot & login using Safe Mode. In addition to disabling many unnecessary drivers, Startup & Login items, it will also delete some temp & cache files when can prevent booting. If Safe Mode works, then try rebooting normally. If Safe Mode worked, but you still have problems then start by disabling login items. You can also run EtreCheck and post the report here using the "Additional Text" icon which looks like a piece of paper.


When you performed the clean install did you test it first without migrating or restoring from backup? You may have just transferred the problem from your backup. You could try it again, but this time limit what you migrate/restore.

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User profile for user: HWTech
HWTech
User level: Level 9
60,278 points

Dec 21, 2019 8:10 PM in response to pmanders

See if you can boot & login using Safe Mode. In addition to disabling many unnecessary drivers, Startup & Login items, it will also delete some temp & cache files when can prevent booting. If Safe Mode works, then try rebooting normally. If Safe Mode worked, but you still have problems then start by disabling login items. You can also run EtreCheck and post the report here using the "Additional Text" icon which looks like a piece of paper.


When you performed the clean install did you test it first without migrating or restoring from backup? You may have just transferred the problem from your backup. You could try it again, but this time limit what you migrate/restore.

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Login problems with Catalina

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