In this chapter, we will explore the start-up process on Mac computers running macOS. Why is it important to explore this? Being familiar with the start up process is important for troubleshooting and narrowing down potential issues. Many problems that users face with their Mac computers occur during startup, and you need to know what happens from the moment the computer is powered on until you see the interface. If everything works as expected, a successful startup should take place. Therefore, you will learn how to recognize the characteristic cues and sounds during this process to identify where a problem might be happening.

In this chapter, you will learn how the start-up process unfolds, or, in other words, how system initialization works in macOS. You will review the stages and the visual/audio cues involved. You will also explore the battery and energy...