Single User Mode is a text only boot mode for OS X. You may use a key combination when starting up the computer to enter single-user mode for troubleshooting. The main use of Single User Mode is running fsck on the boot disk and/or running AppleJack.
To Enter Single User Mode
- Shut down the computer if it is on.
- Press the power button to start the computer.
- Immediately press and hold the Command (Apple) key and the “s” key for single-user mode.
- To exit single-user mode type: reboot
- Press Return.
You have successfully entered single-user or verbose mode when you see white text appear on the screen. At this point you will see instructions on how to run fsck or applejack.
Important Notes
- You cannot enter single user or verbose mode if the computer owner or administrator has enabled Open Firmware Password Protection.
- When in single-user or verbose mode, the keyboard layout is US English.
Useful Links