How to reset Safari to default settings

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for resetting Safari.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To reset Safari to its default settings, you can clear your browsing history, remove website data, and disable extensions. This process can help resolve issues such as slow performance or unwanted behavior in the browser.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before resetting Safari, ensure you have the following:
  • •A Mac running macOS (Safari is not available on Windows anymore).
  • •Administrative access to your Mac.
  • •Backup of important data, as resetting may remove saved passwords and website data.

Method 1: Resetting Safari via Preferences

This method is straightforward and effective for most users. It allows you to clear browsing history, remove website data, and manage extensions.
  • •Step 1: Open Safari. Click on 'Safari' in the menu bar at the top left of your screen.
  • •Step 2: Select 'Preferences...' from the dropdown menu.
  • •Step 3: In the Preferences window, click on the 'Privacy' tab.
  • •Step 4: Click on 'Manage Website Data...' and then select 'Remove All' to clear all stored data.
  • •Step 5: Go to the 'Extensions' tab in Preferences, select any extensions you want to remove, and click 'Uninstall'.
  • •Step 6: Close the Preferences window and restart Safari.
  • •Step 7: Verify that Safari has been reset by checking that your homepage and settings are back to default.
  • •Step 8: If issues persist, consider clearing the cache by clicking 'Develop' in the menu bar and selecting 'Empty Caches'.

For macOS Ventura and later

In macOS Ventura and later, the interface may have slight differences.
  • •Step 1: Open Safari and click on 'Safari' in the menu bar.
  • •Step 2: Select 'Settings...' instead of 'Preferences...'.
  • •Step 3: Follow the same steps as above to clear website data and manage extensions.

For macOS Monterey and earlier

The steps are largely the same, but the interface may look slightly different.
  • •Step 1: Open Safari and click on 'Safari' in the menu bar.
  • •Step 2: Select 'Preferences...' and follow the same steps as above.

Method 2: Resetting Safari via Terminal

For advanced users, resetting Safari via the Terminal can help remove all configurations and data.
  • •Step 1: Open 'Terminal' from Applications > Utilities.
  • •Step 2: Type the command: 'defaults delete com.apple.Safari' and press 'Enter'. This command removes all Safari preferences.
  • •Step 3: To clear cache and website data, type: 'rm -rf ~/Library/Safari' and press 'Enter'.
  • •Step 4: Restart Safari to apply changes.
  • •Step 5: Verify the reset by checking that all settings are back to default.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while resetting Safari, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Safari can't be opened' - Solution: Restart your Mac and try again.
  • •Issue: Extensions still appear after removal - Fix: Ensure you have removed them from both the Extensions tab and the Preferences.
  • •Problem: Website data not clearing - Workaround: Manually delete specific website data from the 'Manage Website Data...' section.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your Safari experience with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Command + Option + E - This empties the cache quickly.
  • •Command line: 'open ~/Library/Safari' - This opens the Safari library folder directly.
  • •Hidden feature: Use 'Develop' menu to enable the 'Empty Caches' option if not visible by default.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For a thorough reset, consider both the Preferences method and the Terminal method to ensure all data is cleared.