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System

# Misc

Startup mode:

OS X can be booted in default standard mode or two other modes that can be used for troubleshooting and in software development. The “Verbose” mode shows all kernel and startup messages. When booting in Safe mode OS X does things to make OS X boot even if the computers startup volume suffers from issues from software or directory damages.

Startup delay:

By setting a startup delay one can give OS X a longer period of time to for example obtaining a IP address via DHCP and for DS to bind to the servers. Startup delay is specified in second which are displayed at the Login Window. If the Login Window UI detects that the network servers are available when it starts, it will skip the delay. If the network servers become available before the delay expires, the Login Window UI cancels the delay and displays.

To reset PRAM:

1. Shut down the computer.
2. Locate the following keys on the keyboard: Command, Option, P, and R.
3. Turn on the computer.
4. Press and hold the Command-Option-P-R keys. You must press this key combination before the gray screen appears.
5. Hold the keys down until the computer restarts and you hear the startup sound for the second time.
6. Release the keys.

Disable startup sound:

Disable startup sound that chimes on system boot.

Disable automatic termination of applications:

Automatic termination of applications is a feature in OS X that comes from the realm of iOS, the idea is that after an application is unused for a period of time and becomes inactive, it will automatically terminate to free up resources for other tasks. You will need to restart the computer in order for changes to take effect.

Disable App Nap:

Disable the App Nap feature entirely and system wide, for every single application and process. App Nap is an energy feature that causes inactive applications to go into a paused state, helping to reduce power usage. While the idea of "napping" background applications to save energy seems like a good one overall, some users may not want their background applications interfered with and would prefer to manage their Mac's power usage on their own. You will need to restart the computer in order for changes to take effect.

Disable Notification Center:

Disable Notification Center in OS X.

Notification banner duration:

Change OS X's notification banner duration. You will need to restart the computer in order for changes to take effect.

Check for system and software updates every X day(s):

Change the Software Update frequency. OS X automatically checks for software updates once a week and displays a notification if updates are available.

Online information

- What is Safe Boot, Safe Mode? by Apple.