The Download

• Double-check that your Mac mini's power cord is plugged in and the wall socket has power.
• Press the power button on the back or top of the Mac mini.
• Button not working? Troubleshoot cables or the outlet.
  

This article explains how to turn on Mac mini desktop computers using the power button. It also recommends troubleshooting tips if the button doesn't work.

How to Turn On a Mac Mini

The most straightforward way to turn on your Mac mini is to locate and press the device's power button.

Before you take that step, ensure the following:

• Power cable: Check that it's securely plugged into the Mac mini and the wall socket.
• Wall socket: Power on the wall socket if necessary.
• Display: Connect the Mac mini to a display.

1. Locate the power button on the back or top of the Mac mini.
   

   

   Apple

2. Press the button and wait for the system to start up.

3. In addition to listening for the start-up chime, look at the status indicator on the front of your Mac mini.

   Though the exact placement might vary, the power light is toward the bottom-right corner of the device.

What to Do If Your Mac Mini Won't Turn On

If your Mac mini won't turn on, try these steps.

1. Double-check the power cable connection at both ends and that the outlet has power. Disconnect the cable at both ends and then re-attach it. Or, try another cable if you think the current one is faulty.

2. Swap out power strips, power adapters, or surge protectors between your Mac mini and the wall socket. You could also remove these components to see if one of them is blocking the Mac mini from starting.

3. Try powering the Mac mini from a different wall socket.

If you manage to get the Mac Mini to power on, but it won't boot to the operating system, check out our guide on how to troubleshoot problems with your Mac.

FAQ

• How do I turn on a Mac Mini without the power button?

  One common option to turn on a Mac without the power button is Wake-on-LAN, which lets you wake, sleep, and turn on a computer over the internet. If the power button is broken, you can also take your Mac in for repair.

• How do I turn off a Mac Mini with the power button?

  If your Mac mini is unresponsive, press and hold the power button to shut it down. The easier method to normally shut down a Mac is to open theApplemenu in the upper-left corner of the display and selectShut Down.