WindowServer stopped responding, Mac freezes, Mac shuts down

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Level 2

171 points

WindowServer stopped responding, Mac freezes, Mac shuts down

I have been experiencing frequent "WindowServer stopped responding" crashes which subsequently shut down my Mac.

In an effort to resolve the issue, I erased my hard drive and reinstalled macOS from scratch this afternoon. I did not restore from Time Machine and have manually been installing apps again and reconfiguring everything.

Six hours later the computer froze up, shut down, and when I restarted it there was a WindowServer crash report ready to be sent. I am at a complete loss as to why this happens. Is my iMac Pro defective? The past 2-3 macOSes have had this issue. The ones prior were rock solid on this machine.

iMac Pro

Posted on Dec 23, 2021 6:39 PM

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Answer 1

lllaass

Level 10

210,513 points

Dec 24, 2021 12:55 AM in response to Tim_McManus

Since this happens with a fresh install, I would run Apple Diagnostics:

Use Apple Diagnostics to test your Mac - Apple Support

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Answer 2

Tim_McManus Author

Level 2

171 points

Dec 24, 2021 8:37 AM in response to Owl-53

EtreCkeck Report

Crash Report 1

Crash Report 2

I have two external monitors connected to the Mac and the cable they are using (USB-C) is an off-brand cable that uses RealTek chips. I have always had issues with other systems I've worked on and RealTek chips, so I am going to the Apple Store today to pick up three Apple cables (for a whopping total of $412) to see if that is the root cause.

I am at a complete loss here. It crashed overnight with no apps running and the screen asleep. I restarted it this AM and it crashed AGAIN while I was grocery shopping, which only took me an hour.

I also have a Jabra headset connected to it, which has never caused any issues, and an OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock, which has been flawless.

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Answer 3

Owl-53

Level 10

103,009 points

Dec 24, 2021 1:23 AM in response to Tim_McManus

To add to the tool kit for trouble shooting >>

Suggest downloading the Application Etrecheck directly from a well Respected ASC Contributor.

The application is free or paid from added features.

Run the application with Full Disc Access ( Security & Privacy - Full Disc Access ).

It will take a Snap Shot - both the hardware and software.

The Report will Not Reveal Any Personal Information.

Post back the Full Report - copy and paste - using the Additional Text Icon ( 3rd Icon to last )

We can have a look at the report for possible issues and may have possible suggestions to resolve the issues.

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WindowServer stopped responding, Mac freezes, Mac shuts down

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