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Stopping Mac Random Restarts or Shutdowns

Issue Description 

Mac restarts or shuts down unexpectedly without warning. 

Common Causes 

  • Kernel panics 
  • Overheating 
  • Power management faults 

Step-by-Step Solution 

Step 1: Check Panic Logs 

  • Finder → Go → Go to Folder 

/Library/Logs/DiagnosticReports 

  • Look for recent panic files 

 

Step 2: Check Temperature 

  • Open Activity Monitor → CPU 
  • Quit apps spiking CPU 

 

Step 3: Reset Power Management 

  • Reset SMC (Intel Macs) 
  • Apple Silicon: Shut down → wait 30 seconds → restart 

 

Step 4: Run Apple Diagnostics 

  • Shut down 
  • Power on → hold D 

Explore Further 

  • Remove recently installed hardware 

Prevention & Best Practices 

Avoid blocking vents during use.