NVRAM Reset

A troubleshooting procedure that resets Mac system settings stored in non-volatile memory, including startup disk selection, display resolution, and time zone.

What to Know

NVRAM Reset resolves persistent issues caused by corrupted system settings that survive normal reboots, including incorrect display resolution, failure to recognize Bluetooth devices, startup disk selection problems, and audio output issues. When Macs exhibit strange behavior that doesn’t match their configuration, corrupted NVRAM is often the culprit. Resetting NVRAM is a low-risk troubleshooting step that often resolves mysterious issues without requiring operating system reinstalls or data loss.

Common Scenarios

Enterprise IT: IT teams guide users through NVRAM resets when Macs won’t remember startup disk selections, display settings keep reverting, or audio output devices aren’t recognized after reboots. This resolves many “weird behavior” help desk tickets without requiring physical device access.

MSP: MSPs use NVRAM reset as a standard troubleshooting step for client Macs exhibiting boot issues, display problems, or hardware recognition failures. It’s a quick procedure that resolves many issues remotely without requiring on-site visits.

Education: School IT performs NVRAM resets on lab Macs that won’t boot from the correct disk, have incorrect display settings, or fail to recognize projectors and classroom displays after reboots. This is especially common on shared Macs that experience improper shutdowns.

In Addigy

While NVRAM reset requires local user action (holding specific keys during boot), Addigy can deploy user-facing documentation and self-service guides that provide clear instructions. After NVRAM reset, any MDM-managed settings like Wi-Fi profiles and certificates are automatically reapplied by Addigy.