How to schedule shutdown and startup on Mac

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting.

7-10 min read

Expert Verified

Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To schedule shutdown and startup on a Mac, users can utilize the built-in Energy Saver settings or employ terminal commands for more advanced scheduling. This feature allows users to automate their Mac's power management, enhancing convenience and energy efficiency.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before scheduling shutdown and startup on your Mac, ensure you have the following:

•A Mac running macOS Sierra (10.12) or later.
•Administrator access to modify system settings.
•No unsaved work in applications that may be affected by shutdown or startup.
•Backup important data using Time Machine or another backup solution.

Method 1: Using Energy Saver Preferences

This method is the most user-friendly and is suitable for most users who want to schedule their Mac's power settings.

•Step 1: Click on the Apple menu () in the top left corner of your screen.
•Step 2: Select 'System Preferences' from the dropdown menu.
•Step 3: Click on 'Battery' (or 'Energy Saver' in older macOS versions).
•Step 4: Select the 'Schedule...' button located at the bottom right of the window.
•Step 5: In the pop-up window, check the box next to 'Start up or wake' and set the desired time and days.
•Step 6: To schedule a shutdown, check the box next to 'Sleep' and set the time accordingly.
•Step 7: Click 'OK' to save your settings.
•Step 8: Verify the settings by returning to the 'Battery' or 'Energy Saver' preferences to ensure your schedule is displayed correctly.
•Step 9: If it doesn't work, ensure your Mac is plugged in and check for any software updates.

For macOS Monterey (12) and later

In macOS Monterey and later, the Energy Saver settings have been integrated into the Battery preferences.

•Step 1: Follow the same steps as above, but note that the 'Energy Saver' option is now 'Battery'.

For macOS Big Sur (11) and earlier

In earlier versions, the layout may differ slightly, but the functionality remains the same.

•Step 1: Look for 'Energy Saver' instead of 'Battery' in System Preferences.

Method 2: Using Terminal Commands

For advanced users, terminal commands provide a powerful way to schedule shutdown and startup tasks.

•Step 1: Open the Terminal application (found in Applications > Utilities).
•Step 2: To schedule a shutdown, type the command: 'sudo shutdown -h +60' (this will shut down the Mac in 60 minutes).
•Step 3: To schedule a startup, use the command: 'sudo pmset repeat wakeorpoweron MTWRFSU 08:00:00' (this will wake the Mac every day at 8 AM).
•Step 4: Press Enter and provide your administrator password when prompted.
•Step 5: Verify the scheduled tasks by typing 'pmset -g sched' to view the current schedule.
•Step 6: If it doesn't work, check for typos in the commands and ensure you have the necessary permissions.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while scheduling shutdown or startup, consider the following solutions:

•Error: 'Permission denied' - Solution: Ensure you are using an administrator account and have entered the correct password.
•Issue: Scheduled shutdown does not occur - Fix: Check if any applications are preventing shutdown, and ensure your Mac is not in use.
•Problem: Startup schedule not working - Workaround: Verify that your Mac is connected to power and that the schedule is correctly set in Energy Saver preferences.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your scheduling experience with these tips:

•Keyboard shortcut: Command (⌘) + Space - Opens Spotlight for quick access to Terminal.
•Command line: 'pmset -g' - Displays current power management settings.
•Hidden feature: Use 'pmset schedule' to view all scheduled power events.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best results, combine both methods to ensure your Mac operates efficiently according to your schedule.