If you are a Mac user, you have probably encountered the frustration of seeing a prohibitory symbol (a circle with a line through it) on your screen when trying to start up your computer. This symbol indicates that your Mac is having trouble starting up and is unable to find a bootable drive. It can be a common issue that arises due to various reasons such as software conflicts, hardware malfunctions, or incorrect settings.
In this blog post, we will explore different methods to help you get rid of the prohibitory symbol on your Mac and successfully start up your computer. We will guide you through each method step by step, providing you with detailed instructions and explanations. By following these methods, you can troubleshoot the issue and bring your Mac back to its normal functioning state.
Video Tutorial:
The Challenge of Getting Rid of the Prohibitory Symbol:
Facing the prohibitory symbol on your Mac can be both frustrating and worrying, as it prevents you from accessing your files and applications. Additionally, you might be concerned about the underlying cause of the issue and whether it indicates a more significant problem with your Mac. However, with the right knowledge and troubleshooting techniques, you can successfully overcome this challenge and resolve the issue.
Things You Should Prepare for:
Before diving into the methods to eliminate the prohibitory symbol on your Mac, there are a few things you should prepare:
1. An external bootable drive: It is recommended to have an external bootable drive with a macOS installer. This will allow you to boot your Mac from the external drive and perform necessary repairs.
2. An internet connection: Some troubleshooting steps require an internet connection to download software updates or access additional resources.
3. Time and patience: Resolving the issue may take some time, depending on the complexity of the problem and the method you choose. It is essential to remain patient and follow the instructions carefully.
Now that you are prepared, let’s proceed to the methods that can help you get rid of the prohibitory symbol on your Mac.
Method 1: How to Use Disk Utility to Repair the Disk
Disk Utility is a built-in tool on your Mac that allows you to manage and repair disks and volumes. By using Disk Utility, you can scan and repair any errors or corruption on your Mac’s startup disk, which might be causing the prohibitory symbol.
1. Start your Mac in Recovery Mode by pressing and holding the Command + R keys while powering on your computer.
2. Once in Recovery Mode, select "Disk Utility" from the macOS Utilities window and click "Continue."
3. In Disk Utility, select your startup disk from the list of available disks on the left side.
4. Click on the "First Aid" button at the top of the Disk Utility window.
5. Disk Utility will analyze and repair any errors on the selected disk. Wait for the process to complete.
6. After the repair process finishes, restart your Mac by selecting "Restart" from the Apple menu.
Pros:
1. Disk Utility is a built-in tool, so there is no need to download or install any additional software.
2. It can detect and repair disk errors, which may eliminate the prohibitory symbol issue.
3. The process is relatively straightforward and does not require advanced technical knowledge.
Cons:
1. Disk Utility may not be able to fix complex disk issues, requiring more advanced methods to be used.
2. In some cases, Disk Utility may report that it is unable to repair the disk, indicating a more significant problem.
Method 2: How to Reinstall macOS via Recovery Mode
Reinstalling macOS via Recovery Mode can help resolve conflicts or corruption in the operating system that might be causing the prohibitory symbol issue. This method reinstalls a fresh copy of macOS while preserving your files and settings.
1. Start your Mac in Recovery Mode by pressing and holding the Command + R keys while powering on your computer.
2. In Recovery Mode, select "Reinstall macOS" from the macOS Utilities window and click "Continue."
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to download and install the latest compatible version of macOS on your Mac.
4. After the installation is complete, your Mac will restart, and hopefully, the prohibitory symbol issue will be resolved.
Pros:
1. Reinstalling macOS can fix software-related issues that might cause the prohibitory symbol.
2. It reinstalls a fresh copy of the operating system, which can eliminate conflicts or corruption.
Cons:
1. Reinstalling macOS may take a significant amount of time, depending on your internet connection speed and the size of the macOS installer.
2. While your files and settings should be preserved, it is always recommended to have a backup before performing any system-level changes.
Method 3: How to Reset the NVRAM/PRAM
Resetting the NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random Access Memory) or PRAM (Parameter RAM) can help clear certain system settings and preferences that might be causing the prohibitory symbol. NVRAM stores information related to your Mac’s startup, such as screen resolution and disk settings.
1. Shut down your Mac completely.
2. Press the power button to turn on your Mac and immediately press and hold the Option + Command + P + R keys simultaneously.
3. Keep holding the keys until you hear the Mac startup sound for the second time, and then release them.
4. Your Mac will restart, and the NVRAM/PRAM will be reset.
Pros:
1. Resetting the NVRAM/PRAM is a quick and easy process.
2. It clears certain system settings that might cause the prohibitory symbol issue.
3. No data or files are affected during the reset process.
Cons:
1. Resetting the NVRAM/PRAM may not always fix the prohibitory symbol if the issue is not related to the system settings.
2. It is a more basic troubleshooting step and might not work for complex issues.
Method 4: How to Perform a Safe Boot
A Safe Boot allows your Mac to boot up with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs, which can help identify any software conflicts causing the prohibitory symbol.
1. Shut down your Mac completely.
2. Turn on your Mac and immediately press and hold the Shift key.
3. Keep holding the Shift key until you see the Apple logo and a progress bar on the screen. This process may take longer than a regular boot.
4. Once your Mac has booted up in Safe Mode, log in to your account and check if the prohibitory symbol issue persists.
5. If the prohibitory symbol is no longer present, restart your Mac without holding the Shift key to exit Safe Mode.
Pros:
1. Safe Boot disables unnecessary drivers and startup programs, identifying software conflicts.
2. If the issue is caused by software conflicts, performing a Safe Boot can help eliminate the prohibitory symbol.
Cons:
1. Safe Boot limits the functionality and performance of your Mac while it is enabled.
2. It might not be effective for hardware-related issues that could cause the prohibitory symbol.
Why Can’t I Get Rid of the Prohibitory Symbol?
Sometimes, even after trying different methods, you may still struggle to get rid of the prohibitory symbol on your Mac. Here are a few possible reasons and their fixes:
1. Issue with the hard drive or SSD: If your Mac’s storage drive is failing or has errors, it can lead to the prohibitory symbol. In this case, you may need to replace the drive or take it to an Apple Authorized Service Provider for repair.
2. Incompatible or unsupported macOS version: If you are attempting to install or run a macOS version that is not compatible with your Mac model, it can trigger the prohibitory symbol. Verify the compatibility and install an appropriate macOS version.
3. Corrupted or missing system files: If essential system files are corrupted or missing, it can cause the prohibitory symbol. Reinstalling or restoring macOS from a previous backup might be necessary to resolve the issue.
Additional Tips:
Here are some additional tips that can help you in overcoming the prohibitory symbol on your Mac:
1. Keep your macOS up to date: Regularly updating your Mac’s operating system can prevent or resolve compatibility issues that might cause the prohibitory symbol.
2. Use Disk Utility regularly: Running Disk Utility and verifying your disk’s health periodically can help prevent disk errors that could lead to the prohibitory symbol.
3. Maintain backups: Having regular backups of your important files and data ensures that you can easily recover in case of any system-related issues, including the prohibitory symbol.
5 FAQs about Getting Rid of the Prohibitory Symbol:
Q1: Why does the prohibitory symbol appear on my Mac?
A1: The prohibitory symbol appears when your Mac is unable to find a bootable drive or encounters errors during the startup process.
Q2: Can I fix the prohibitory symbol issue without professional help?
A2: Yes, many prohibitory symbol issues can be resolved by following the methods mentioned in this blog post. However, if you are unable to fix it yourself, seeking professional assistance is recommended.
Q3: Will reinstalling macOS delete my files and data?
A3: No, reinstalling macOS via Recovery Mode does not delete your files and data. However, it is always recommended to have a backup before performing any system-level changes.
Q4: How can I prevent the prohibitory symbol from appearing in the future?
A4: To prevent the prohibitory symbol, make sure to keep your macOS up to date, run regular disk maintenance using Disk Utility, and maintain backups of your important data.
Q5: Do I need to replace my hard drive if I see the prohibitory symbol?
A5: If the prohibitory symbol persists, even after trying different methods, it might indicate a hardware issue with your hard drive. In this case, consulting an Apple Authorized Service Provider or replacing the drive might be necessary.
In Conclusion:
Encountering the prohibitory symbol on your Mac can be worrisome, but with the methods outlined in this blog post, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the issue. By using Disk Utility to repair the disk, reinstalling macOS via Recovery Mode, resetting the NVRAM/PRAM, or performing a Safe Boot, you can overcome the prohibitory symbol and bring your Mac back to normal functioning.
Remember to be prepared with an external bootable drive, an internet connection, and some time and patience. Additionally, follow the additional tips provided to prevent future occurrences of the prohibitory symbol and maintain the health of your Mac.