iMac starts up when I turn on the electricity

On the iMac that starts up when the power is turned on

go to Apple > System Preferences > Energy Saver > uncheck "Start up automatically after a power failure"

Next thing to do, is reset the iMac's SMC, as per > Reset the SMC of your Mac - Apple Support

Desktop computer

1. Shut down your Mac, then unplug the power cord.
2. Wait 15 seconds, then plug the power cord back in.
3. Wait 5 seconds, then press the power button to turn on your Mac.

Have the secretary try this: boot into Safe Mode according to How to use safe mode on your Mac and then reboot normally and test to see if the problem persists.

NOTE 1: Safe Mode boot can take up to 3 - 5 minutes as it's doing the following; 

• Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair directory issues, if needed

• Loads only required kernel extensions (prevents 3rd party kernel/extensions from loading)

• Prevents Startup Items and Login Items from opening automatically

• Disables user-installed fonts 

• Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and other system cache files

NOTE 2: if you have a wireless keyboard with rechargeable batteries connect it with its charging cable before booting into Safe Mode. This makes it act as a wired keyboard as will insure a successful boot into Safe Mode.

A workaround would be to plug in the secretary's Mac into a switched power strip. When shutting down for the night turn off the power strip. When she comes in in the morning turn on the power strip and, if necessary press the power button to boot up the Mac.

The log entries you found might be related to the automatic startup issue, but it's not a definitive cause. Let's break down what we know and explore some solutions:

Understanding the Logs:

• com.apple.launchd[1]: This refers to the launchd process, which is responsible for starting up services and applications on your Mac.
• (com.apple.xprotectupdater[28]) and (com.apple.xprotectupdater[227]): This indicates the launchd service trying to launch the "com.apple.xprotectupdater" process, which is responsible for updating the Mac's built-in malware protection (XProtect).
• Exited with exit code: 253: This means the xprotectupdater process exited abnormally with an error code (253).

There's limited official documentation on specific exit codes, but generally, a high exit code signifies an error.

Possible Causes and Solutions:

1. XProtect Update Issue: The error code might indicate a problem with updating the malware definitions. Here's what you can try:

• • Manually Update: Open System Preferences -> Security & Privacy -> General and click the "Update Now" button under "Software Update."
  • Check Internet Connection: Ensure the Mac has a stable internet connection for updates.

1. Permissions Issue: The xprotectupdater process might lack necessary permissions. Try resetting System Permissions using Apple's Disk Utility Tool.
2. Automatic Startup Configuration: While the launchd error might be coincidental, let's explore automatic startup settings:

• • Go to System Preferences -> Accounts -> [Secretary's Username] -> Login Items.
  • Check if any applications are set to launch at login that might be causing the automatic startup. Uncheck unnecessary items.

Further Troubleshooting:

• Search Online: Search for "com.apple.xprotectupdater exit code 253" on reputable tech forums or communities.You might find solutions from other users who encountered similar issues.
• Apple Support: If the above steps don't resolve it, consider contacting Apple Support for further assistance. They might have access to more specific troubleshooting steps based on the Mac's configuration.

Hi,

Just wonder if your iMac connects Ground of AC outlet. I suppose Surcharge protector connects between AC outlet and iMac AC cable which could stops auto startup of iMac.

Sounds like you may have some other network equipment connected to the same electrical circuit which does not go ready as quickly as this iMac is able to boot. So when macOS is checking for updates, it does not have a working Internet connection yet.

A 2011 Mac is like an abacus - older than prehistoric obsolete. You have only two options: replace the secretary’s Mac or turn on office power only after she shows up (or quits). Good luck!

Hmm so the Secretary and Janitor keep their jobs and Apple $ell$ another $1000+ computer. I believe this is what’s called a win, win, win solution.

Well done! 😁👍👌

Ah, a win-win solution. Everyone except Apple lives happily ever after! That’s what I call a dream ending 👌😁, thanks for updating!

Apple Support won’t help, OP’s 2011 iMac is officially obsolete.