Force quit a Mac program, or restart the Mac

Close a frozen app and restart when things go wrong.

Updated September 21, 2026

Force quit a frozen program

  1. Press Option + Command + Esc.
  2. Select the program that is not responding.
  3. Choose Force Quit.

Restart

  1. Save your work.
  2. Select the Apple menu at the top left, then choose Restart.
Good to know

Restart at least once a week. If the Mac is completely frozen, hold the power button for about ten seconds, then start it again.

More in Mac computers

Related guides