My iMac will not get past the login page. I can enter my password then it just circles. If I start up in safe mode, it will go to the desktop screen but will not open any apps. I think the memory is too full. What should I do?

My computer did an update and ever since it will not go past the login screen in normal mode. It will in safe mode but will not open any applications. What should I do?

iMac 27″, macOS 13.4

Posted on Aug 7, 2023 2:02 PM

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Posted on Aug 7, 2023 2:17 PM

Typically, when you enter your password at the login prompt, and your Mac appears to stall, it may be because it is attempting to "login items" and is having trouble doing so.


One quick check is to temporarily disable loading these items. To do so, enter your password, THEN hold down the Shift key BEFORE selecting the Login button. If you now get to the macOS Desktop quickly, you know that it is one, or more, of these login items that is the culprit.


Ref: Temporarily Disable Login Items in Mac OS X - OSXDaily << This article is a bit dated, but still valid.


Should this not lead to a solution, then the next step I would suggest would be to run an EtreCheck report, and optionally post its results here if you need assistance with interpreting its results. EtreCheck is a troubleshooting tool that greatly aides in uncovering issues with your Mac's operations. It was developed by a valued forum member and a number of us have used/recommended it to others.


Ref: Using EtreCheck to Troubleshoot Potential… - Apple Community


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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Aug 7, 2023 2:17 PM in response to AmmieD

Typically, when you enter your password at the login prompt, and your Mac appears to stall, it may be because it is attempting to "login items" and is having trouble doing so.


One quick check is to temporarily disable loading these items. To do so, enter your password, THEN hold down the Shift key BEFORE selecting the Login button. If you now get to the macOS Desktop quickly, you know that it is one, or more, of these login items that is the culprit.


Ref: Temporarily Disable Login Items in Mac OS X - OSXDaily << This article is a bit dated, but still valid.


Should this not lead to a solution, then the next step I would suggest would be to run an EtreCheck report, and optionally post its results here if you need assistance with interpreting its results. EtreCheck is a troubleshooting tool that greatly aides in uncovering issues with your Mac's operations. It was developed by a valued forum member and a number of us have used/recommended it to others.


Ref: Using EtreCheck to Troubleshoot Potential… - Apple Community


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My iMac will not get past the login page. I can enter my password then it just circles. If I start up in safe mode, it will go to the desktop screen but will not open any apps. I think the memory is too full. What should I do?

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