Starting up into Safe Mode does several things that can help resolve software or directory issues that may exist on the startup volume. To start up in Safe Mode: 1. Shut down the computer. 2. Press power button. 3. Immediately after you hear startup tone, press and hold Shift key. Note: The Shift key should be held as soon as possible after startup tone but not before. 4. Release Shift key when you see the screen with a gray Apple and progress indicator (looks like a spinning gear). Note that booting into Safe Mode will take longer than a normal startup. During startup, the words ”Safe Boot” will appear on Mac OS X startup screen. 5. To leave Safe Mode, restart computer normally, without holding down any keys during startup.