Why is Safari so Slow? 8 Possible Causes & Fixes
![safari is slow to load Lorena Image](https://www.macbookproslow.com/wp-content/uploads/Lorena-40x40.jpg)
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Experiencing Safari slowdowns on your Mac? Whether it’s loading issues or post-Monterey update sluggishness, these common glitches can be frustrating. In this guide, we’ll explore why Safari is lagging and provide solutions for a smoother browsing experience.
Note: if Safari is not just slow, but keeps freezing and crashing, read this post instead for more troubleshooting tips.
Key Takeaways:
- Clear Cache: Overloaded cache can slow Safari. Clear history and cache through Safari settings for a speed boost.
- Extensions Check: Outdated or excessive extensions can drag Safari down. Remove unnecessary ones via Safari settings.
- Update Safari: An outdated Safari version might cause slowness. Update it through the App Store.
- Network Check: Slow Safari might be due to network issues. Test internet speed to rule this out.
- User Account Check: A corrupted user account or macOS issues can affect Safari. Test on a new user account and run disk utility checks.
- Tab Management: Too many open tabs strain Safari. Close unnecessary tabs for better performance.
![](http://playon.fun/777/templates/cheerup/res/banner1.gif)
Why is Safari so Slow?
Safari could be slow because you’re using an outdated version of Safari. The cache might be overworked, or you might be facing network issues. Additionally, you might have too many tabs open that are causing the app to slow down.
Important Tips
It’s normal for safari to run slow on certain websites.
By certain websites, we mean “heavy” sites that are loaded with flash or video ads on the pages you browse. Worse yet, some even auto-play without you clicking on. They tend to have your MacBook heat up quick.
The best option is to close those pages immediately when you finish reading the content on it, or you could install AdBlock Plus (Safari compatible) to block the ads from displaying.
Stop excessively multitasking
You’d be surprised how much better 90% of programs work when you don’t try and use them at the same time as a dozen other apps. It seems like a simple solution, but it is often the best one.
Take care of Safari
Some methods are a matter of habit, such as regularly clearing your cache or making sure the app is up to date. Imagine your computer as a car that needs regular maintenance to run well.
Don’t neglect the computer
Macs are not immune to viruses, despite the common perception. They also aren’t immune to file corruption or errors. Make sure you haven’t picked up anything unwanted while browsing that could be affecting Safari’s performance.
Slow Safari : 8 Possible Causes & Fixes
1. overworked cache.
The cache is a location on your Mac’s hard drive where Safari temporarily stores data that you use frequently. The cache allows Safari to reference this information quickly and therefore execute actions such as loading a specific page more quickly.
However, if the cache becomes full then Safari cannot add newer, more relevant material and is forced to use slower methods to respond to your demands.
Here’s how to erase the data in the cache so that Safari can work smarter rather than harder:
Start by erasing your history from Safari by navigating the menu bar along the top and choosing History > Clear History and Website Data .
![safari is slow to load Clear History and Website Data](https://www.macbookproslow.com/wp-content/uploads/safari-slow-mac5.png.webp)
Once you click this, you’ll be shown a small pop-up window. Choose “All History” from the bottom of the drop-down, and then Clear History .
![safari is slow to load Clear History](https://www.macbookproslow.com/wp-content/uploads/safari-slow-mac9.png.webp)
The next thing you can do is clear the cache using a more advanced method. First, go to the Safari menu and open Preferences.
![safari is slow to load Open Preferences](https://www.macbookproslow.com/wp-content/uploads/safari-slow-mac10.png.webp)
On the preferences panel, choose “Advanced” and then look for the checkbox at the bottom of the page that says “Show Develop Menu in Menu Bar”. Make sure this box is checked, then close Preferences.
![safari is slow to load Show Develop Menu in Menu Bar](https://www.macbookproslow.com/wp-content/uploads/safari-slow-mac3.png.webp)
You’ll notice a new tab has been added to your menu bar, called “Develop”. Click on this, and then choose “Empty Caches” from the list. You won’t be given any confirmation, but it will clear the cache and you can restart Safari and see if this has solved your problem.
![safari is slow to load Empty Cache](https://www.macbookproslow.com/wp-content/uploads/safari-slow-mac14.png.webp)
2. Bad Extensions
Most people are aware that Apple doesn’t play well with Flash, but this isn’t the only plugin that could be causing Safari to lag. Any extension or plugin that is outdated or not correctly optimized could be the “culprit”, and you should disable or remove as many as possible.
The easiest way to do this is to use CleanMyMac X , go to Extensions > Safari Extensions (the screenshot below), here you just select these unwanted plugins, and click the “Remove” button at the bottom to clean them all at once.
![safari is slow to load Safari Extensions](https://www.macbookproslow.com/wp-content/uploads/cleanmymac-x-safari.png.webp)
Of course, you can also get this done manually, though the process will be a bit time-consuming if you have a list of extensions to disable or remove.
First, start by opening Safari, and then navigate to Safari > Preferences.
![safari is slow to load](https://www.macbookproslow.com/wp-content/uploads/safari-slow-mac6.png.webp)
In the preferences menu, choose the Extensions icon. You’ll be shown a list of all your extensions.
![safari is slow to load uninstall](https://www.macbookproslow.com/wp-content/uploads/safari-slow-mac1.png.webp)
If you don’t use an extension, you should uninstall it with the button on the right side. If you use it but infrequently, simply uncheck the “enable” box. This should significantly speed up Safari, especially if you have been running a lot of extensions in the background.
Check out this article by MacBook Pro Slow on how to take scrolling screenshots.
3: Outdated Version of Safari
Because Apple makes Safari, it usually receives updates when macOS has a new version released or when there is a necessary patch. If you’re running an old version of Safari, this could be part (or even all) of your problem.
If you aren’t on macOS Big Sur or higher, your Safari is definitely in need of an update. To check what you’re running, go to the Apple Menu in the top left corner and choose “About this Mac”.
If you’re on an older version, your window will look something like this, displaying the version of macOS you’re running:
![safari is slow to load displaying the version of macOS](https://www.macbookproslow.com/wp-content/uploads/safari-slow-mac12.png.webp)
If you’re already on macOS BigSur, it will look like this instead:
![safari is slow to load bigsur system preference](https://www.macbookproslow.com/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-2021-03-04-at-5.05.08-PM.png)
If you aren’t on the latest macOS yet, open the App Store from Finder, and navigate to updates. There will be at least one software update available, which you can expand. This will show you the update for Safari, which you can update separately or with any other updates you may have available.
![safari is slow to load Safari Version](https://www.macbookproslow.com/wp-content/uploads/safari-slow-mac15.png.webp)
4: Your Network
You might argue that the problems inside Safari are simpler to deal with, but sometimes it’s surprising that Safari isn’t necessarily the “culprit”. Your network can have a significant impact on Safari’s performance.
To find out whether your Mac has network issues, check out our other post to learn more.
To test the Internet speed, you can also use Google Fiber .
- First, open the link on your Safari browser, then press the blue “play” button, and watch as your internet speed is tested.
- The site will first test your upload and then your download speed.
- Once you have your results, you can compare them with this link , which contains charts detailing what you should expect based on the connection type.
- If your results are below expected, it might be time to contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP), especially if speeds fall far below what you’re paying for.
Note: if speed seems normal and falls in the expected ranges, then this probably isn’t your problem, and you should try some of our other solutions.
5: Your User Account or Mac Drive
Sometimes the issue runs a bit deeper than just a full cache. You could have a corrupted user account or your macOS version isn’t operating correctly. To determine if this is your problem, start by creating a second user account on your MacBook.
On the new user account, open Safari and try using it as you normally would. If Safari suddenly runs faster, it’s time to repair your normal user account.
Use spotlight (top right corner of the screen) to search “Disk Utility” and open it.
![safari is slow to load Disk Utility](https://www.macbookproslow.com/wp-content/uploads/safari-slow-mac2.png.webp)
Inside Disk Utility, select your account’s disk and make sure you’re on the “First Aid” tab. Then select “Repair Disk” from the bottom right corner (if this is unavailable, choose “Verify Disk” first).
Note: If your MacBook Pro is with macOS 10.10 Yosemite or earlier, you have two buttons to click on like below.
![safari is slow to load Repair Disk](https://www.macbookproslow.com/wp-content/uploads/safari-slow-mac7.png.webp)
However, if your MacBook Pro is with 10.11 El Capitan or later (you probably are), just click “First Aid” and run it to check and fix any issues it may find.
![safari is slow to load Running First Aid](https://www.macbookproslow.com/wp-content/uploads/safari-slow-mac4.png.webp)
The Disk Utility will repair any problems with your account. If it isn’t capable of fixing the problem, resetting your MacBook Pro is always an alternative if a bit tedious to do.
6: Close all extra tabs
The more tabs you have open on Safari, the slower your computer can run. If you don’t know what a tab is – it’s an open window. Even if you are only looking at a single tab at a time, the other open ones are using up the CPU, which puts a demand on your computer.
Newer MacBooks are capable of keeping multiple tabs open with relative ease. But if you have 10 or 20 or even more open simultaneously, you can run into performance issues that can slow down Safari significantly.
If you are experiencing slow performance, close any tabs you aren’t currently using, and you can see an increase in operating speed.
7: Disable search suggestions
This is another quick fix that can often speed up Safari. Not many people know this one, so write it down or take a screenshot for future use.
To turn off search suggestions, complete the following steps:
- Click on Safari from the top of the window
- Select Preferences
- Select Search
- In the Search settings window that appears, uncheck the box that says Include search engine suggestions
![safari is slow to load turn off search suggestions](https://www.macbookproslow.com/wp-content/uploads/Disable-search-suggestions-1024x335.png)
This can increase Safari speeds ever so slightly and help you see improved performance.
8: Disable DNS prefetching
If you are running Safari version 5.0.1 or later, DNS prefetching might be slowing down your MacBook. This feature allows you to load a link on a page before you click on them, leading to faster browsing. But it can also slow down your computer with multiple pages trying to load and some website-related issues.
To disable DNS prefetching, follow these steps:
- Open the Terminal
- Enter this text: defaults write com.apple.safari WebKitDNSPrefetchingEnabled -boolean false
- Quit Safari
- Reopen Safari
DNS prefetching will now be disabled for another small boost to the speed of your MacBook
Curious about testing your MacBook’s Disk Speed in a flash? Dive into this article to find out how.
Final Words
No one enjoys staring at the colorful loading pinwheel when they just want to browse the web or access an important page for work. Hopefully, you won’t be experiencing the Safari slow issue anytime soon with our solution guide.
Still not able to solve your problems even after using the methods we’ve outlined? A good resource is the Apple Community forum, where you can get advice from fellow Mac fans. You may also find bug reports and similar questions from other users.
Alternatively, if you’ve already fixed the Safari problem, write a comment and tell us about it below.
![safari is slow to load Avatar photo](https://www.macbookproslow.com/wp-content/uploads/Lorena-100x100.jpg)
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‘All of these behaviors are typical symptoms related to Apple’s signature Internet browser. While Safari is a light-weighted browser optimized for use on all Mac machines, issues like above might force you to resort to third-party browsers (perhaps Chrome, stay away from Firefox) that tend to be faster.”
Chrome is developed by Google. When you use Chrome, not just your searches but EVERYTHING YOU TYPE and EVERYWHERE YOU GO is sent to and tracked by Google.
Don’t be a sheep. Don’t use Chrome.
BrendaJordan
Why do I have the message that Safari is updating on my MacBook Pro?
Realize your situation up for grabs, that is noticed by discovering the obtain when the cards are being dealt.
thanks very helpful
![safari is slow to load safari is slow to load](https://wordpress-1102405-3862909.cloudwaysapps.com/wp-content/uploads/cleanmymac-christmas-banner.png)
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Safari Slow on Mac
In this article you will find the following:
Safari is the fastest browser on the Mac, but it isn't immune from slowdowns and performance issues. If web pages take longer to load or site navigation doesn't feel responsive, read on to learn how to speed up Safari on Mac.
Before you start: If you want Safari to run as well as possible, you need to make sure the apps on your Mac are up-to-date. That’s easy with MacKeeper’s Update Tracker: Download and run MacKeeper. Select Update Tracker . Click Scan For Updates . Select what to update, and click Update . Yes, it’s as simple as that. Keep your Mac’s apps up to date with MacKeeper, and you’ll save tons of time.
- Why is Safari so slow on Mac?
Before we consider the solutions, let’s look at some of the possible reasons that Safari is lagging on your Mac. Understanding these issues will help you to identify them, so you can get Safari working as it should.
Common causes for the Safari browser to run slowly include:
- Your internet connection is running slow.
- There’s a problem with your Wi-Fi.
- You have too many Safari tabs open.
- You’re running too many resource-intensive apps in the background.
- Safari or macOS is out of date.
- Faulty or incompatible drivers are interfering with Safari.
- Your Safari preferences have become corrupted.
- You’re running out of disk space on your Mac.
In our article, we’re going to look at fixing these issues and more.
- How to speed up Safari on Mac
Is Safari running slow on your MacBook, iMac, or Mac mini? Connectivity issues, unoptimized extensions, cache corruption, and a host of other reasons often cause that. Try these suggestions to improve Safari performance on your Mac:
- Check if your internet is slow
- Close unnecessary tabs in Safari
- Shut down apps and resource-intensive processes on Mac
- Disable unnecessary Safari extensions
- Switch DNS servers for Wi-Fi and Ethernet
- Clear the Safari cache and cookies
- Manage and configure autofill
- Update your Safari browser
- Reset Safari to factory defaults
- Boot your Mac into Safe Mode
- Fix problems with the Startup Disk
- Free up disk space on your Mac
1. Check if your internet is slow
If Safari isn’t loading pages , or it takes too long, it's important to figure out if it's just a matter of your internet being slow. The best way to do that is to use an online speed checker like Fast.com or SpeedTest.net. You can also just type ‘speed test’ in Google to bring an internet speed tester without leaving the search engine.
Restart your router if you find that your internet isn't uploading or downloading at a decent rate. If that doesn't speed it up, learn what else you can do to fix a slow internet connection on Mac . Also, don't discount server-side issues. If the problem is limited to a specific site, use a website monitoring tool such as Downdetector to see if that site is experiencing issues. Sometimes, websites go down, and there’s really nothing you can do about it except wait for them to be fixed.
![Go to Google and search for 'speed test'. This will bring up an internet speed testing tool, which will let you see if your Mac's connection is okay. Go to Google and search for 'speed test'. This will bring up an internet speed testing tool, which will let you see if your Mac's connection is okay.](https://static-cdn.mackeeper.com/mk-blog-upload/images/new_4e8ed68795.png)
2. Close unnecessary tabs in Safari
Although Safari is adept at handling dozens of tabs, having too many open simultaneously will eventually take its toll on your Mac's memory. That creates delays while loading new pages, and the performance hit could also result in erratic browser behavior.
The quickest way to speed up Safari on Mac is to shut down unnecessary tabs as soon as you notice any slowdowns. Getting used to moving between and closing tabs using the Ctrl+Tab and Command+W keyboard shortcuts can make the process even faster.
![Having too many tabs open can slow down Safari, causing it to lag. Make a habit of closing down any tabs that you don't need. Having too many tabs open can slow down Safari, causing it to lag. Make a habit of closing down any tabs that you don't need.](https://static-cdn.mackeeper.com/mk-blog-upload/images/new_af7bf88b71.png)
3. Shut down apps and resource-intensive processes on Mac
Tabs aside, having too many applications open can also make the Safari browser slow on Mac. If you find your Mac overheating , that’s a good sign it’s being overworked. This is less likely to be the case with newer Macs, which have fast Apple Silicon processors like the M1 and M2. Nevertheless, you should check your Mac's Dock and quit anything you aren't actively using. Try force-quitting troublesome programs if you can't close them normally.
If that doesn’t get Safari up to speed, you may have background processes that are using too much processing power and memory. Use the Activity Monitor to locate and stop them:
- Open Activity Monitor from Applications > Utilities . In the CPU tab, sort your Mac's activity using the % CPU column and shut down any third-party processes that use a significant amount of CPU.
- Switch to the Memory tab and stop third-party items that use lots of RAM.
![Apps and background processes that use a lot of processing power can slow down your entire Mac, including your Safari web browser. Apps and background processes that use a lot of processing power can slow down your entire Mac, including your Safari web browser.](https://static-cdn.mackeeper.com/mk-blog-upload/images/new_23b059d009.png)
Important: If you always end up pushing the hardware on your Mac to its limits, consider using MacKeeper's Memory Cleaner feature to keep things under control.
4. Disable unnecessary Safari extensions
Running Safari with multiple extensions increases the load on the CPU and RAM. That translates to slower browser performance, so review your list of browser add-ons and disable any items you don't regularly use. Here’s how:
- Open Safari and select Safari > Settings on the menu bar.
- Switch to the Extensions tab. Clear the boxes next to any extensions you want to disable.
![Open Safari Preferences from the Safari menu. Open Safari Preferences from the Safari menu.](https://static-cdn.mackeeper.com/mk-blog-upload/images/new_2d7201678b.png)
Note from our team: We highly recommend you update Safari extensions periodically via the Mac's App Store or MacKeeper’s Update Tracker to ensure they run in top shape. If you notice anything suspicious that might be slowing you down, learn how to remove malicious browser extensions and toolbars from your Mac.
5. Switch DNS servers for Wi-Fi and Ethernet
DNS (short for Domain Name System) is a cataloging system that matches domain names with IP addresses. When you type in the web address of a site, DNS tells your browser which IP address to visit to load the site.
Not all DNS providers are fast, so changing your Wi-Fi or Ethernet's DNS settings to a popular service like Google DNS can make Safari run faster on Mac. For best results, clear the DNS cache on your Mac before you begin.
Change your Mac’s DNS settings like this:
- In System Settings , select Network in the sidebar, then either Ethernet or Wi-Fi , depending on how you’re connected to the internet.
- Click Details .
- In the DNS section, click the plus button under DNS servers, and add 8.8.8.8 . Then do the same with 8.8.4.4 , and click OK .
![Your Mac's DNS settings can slow down Safari. Go to your System Setting. Choose 'Network' then either 'Ethernet' or 'Wi-Fi'. Your Mac's DNS settings can slow down Safari. Go to your System Setting. Choose 'Network' then either 'Ethernet' or 'Wi-Fi'.](https://static-cdn.mackeeper.com/mk-blog-upload/images/new_5b797628cc.png)
6. Clear the Safari cache and cookies
Like most web browsers, Safari caches various forms of site data—images, HTML files, and JavaScript code—to improve load times in subsequent visits. However, a bloated or corrupt cache can adversely impact performance and result in Safari working slow on the Mac. You can clear the Safari cache after activating its hidden Develop menu.
Corrupt, outdated, or privacy-invasive browser cookies can slow down Safari. Deleting these cookies may help too. Here’s how to clear Safari’s cache and cookies:
- In Safari’s settings menu , switch to the Advanced tab and check the box next to Show features for web developers .
- Select Develop on the menu bar and pick the Empty Caches option.
- Now for the cookies. Select Safari > Clear History on the menu bar.
- Set Clear to All History , and click Clear History .
![In Safari's settings, you can enable web developer features. This will make a new option appear in Safari's menu bar, entitled 'Develop'. In Safari's settings, you can enable web developer features. This will make a new option appear in Safari's menu bar, entitled 'Develop'.](https://static-cdn.mackeeper.com/mk-blog-upload/images/new_0b48fa1394.png)
Hint from our experts: You can also clear your Safari cache with MacKeeper’s Safe Cleanup . In just a few clicks, it will clean up not only Safari but all your other web browsers and apps, log files, unneeded languages, and more. Run Safe Cleanup and get your Mac in order: In MacKeeper , select Safe Cleanup , then click Start Scan . When the scan is finished, choose what you want to delete, then click Clean Junk Files . Now click Skip Trash or Empty Trash , and MacKeeper will clear out the junk data. Step 1. Run Safe Cleanup Step 2. Remove junk files Step 3. Confirm removal
7. Manage and configure autofill
Autofill is a common feature in web browsers, which automatically fills in online forms for you. Information like your name, phone number, email address, and even payment cards are stored, so you don’t have to remember them or type them manually every time. As convenient as this feature is, it can also cause Safari to run slowly.
Changing your Safari browser’s autofill settings can stop it lagging:
- Open Safari’s settings , and go to the Autofill tab. To disable a category of autofilled data, use the checkboxes . Click one of the Edit buttons for more precise configuration.
- If you decide to edit the Credit cards autofill settings, for example, enter your password and click Unlock .
- You can then add or remove credit cards. Now do the same with the other autofill settings.
![In your Safari settings, go to the 'Autofill' section, then look through the list of autofilled data types. Deselect them to disable them. Otherwise, click 'Edit'. In your Safari settings, go to the 'Autofill' section, then look through the list of autofilled data types. Deselect them to disable them. Otherwise, click 'Edit'.](https://static-cdn.mackeeper.com/mk-blog-upload/images/new_9c793cc0f6.png)
8. Update your Safari browser and macOS
Like many software companies, Apple regularly releases new updates for its apps, including Safari, and they arrive alongside regular macOS updates . These include bug fixes and performance enhancements, so you should make sure your browser and operating system are always on the latest supported version. Updating may be enough to fix a slow Safari browser. To update your Mac:
- In System Settings , select General from the sidebar, and then click Software Update .
- Wait until the Software Update tool checks for newer macOS updates and select Update Now to install any pending updates.
![safari is slow to load safari is slow to load](https://static-cdn.mackeeper.com/mk-blog-upload/images/new_0eccd98b30.png)
Even if a new macOS update doesn't include anything Safari-related, installing it will still improve general performance across native apps. Whether your Mac is running slow or not, make it a point to install macOS updates as soon as possible.
9. Reset Safari to factory defaults
Corrupt browser preferences and other underlying issues can also play a factor. There’s no way to repair your Safari preferences, so sometimes, the only way to fix a slow instance of Safari on Mac is to reset it to factory defaults. Here’s how:
- Save your work and exit Safari. Open Finder , select Go > Go to Folder on the menu bar, and visit the ~/Library/Preferences/ directory.
- Find the com.apple.Safari.plist file and delete it.
- Reopen the Go to Folder box and visit ~/Library/Safari/ . Then, delete each item within the folder except the Bookmarks.plist file.
- Visit ~/Library/Containers/ , search for Safari, and delete all files and folders that appear among the search results.
![safari is slow to load safari is slow to load](https://static-cdn.mackeeper.com/mk-blog-upload/images/new_4e7f94e690.png)
Next time you open Safari, you’ll need to set it up again to your liking. For example, you’ll need to visit its Settings pane to reactivate any extensions you want.
If you’re worried about security, check our guide on how Safari can get a virus .
10. Boot your Mac into safe mode
If none of the fixes above help speed up Safari, try booting your Mac into and out of safe mode. That helps flush out various forms of temporary data that can interfere with Apple's browser. It can also help you work out if third-party apps or drivers are hurting your Mac’s performance. These don’t load when you’re in safe mode, so if you think such programs are causing issues, you can uninstall them.
On an Intel Mac , you can get to safe mode while holding down the Shift key during the reboot phase . However, if you use an Apple Silicon Mac, follow these steps to get your computer into safe mode:
- Shut down your Mac.
- Turn it on but keep holding the Power button until you get to the Startup Options screen.
- Hold the Shift key and select Macintosh HD > Continue in Safe Mode .
Important : In Safe Mode, repeat the fixes above if you cannot complete them earlier. Then restart your Mac normally. To delete additional forms of temporary data that can slow down Safari, learn how to delete your Mac's application and system caches . Start your Mac in safe mode
11. Fix problems with the Startup Disk
Your startup disk is where macOS is stored, so if there are any issues with it, your Mac may not run as you expect. Apps like Safari may be affected, causing them to run slowly or freeze up. Fortunately, macOS contains tools that can help you diagnose problems with your disk drives:
- Turn your Mac off completely.
- If you’re using an Intel Mac , power it up while holding down Command+R . When you see the Apple logo, you can let go.
- If your Mac has an Apple Silicon chip , press and hold the power button . Keep it held down until you see the startup options screen. Click Options > Continue .
- This will put your Mac in recovery mode. Select your account, then click Next. Enter your password.
- Choose Dis k Utility > Continue . Select your Mac’s main system drive, and then click First Aid.
- Now click Run . If Disk Utility finds anything wrong with your hard drive or SSD, it’ll try to fix it.
![Put your Mac into recovery mode, then open the Disk Utility tool. Click 'First Aid', then check your disk for possible issues. Put your Mac into recovery mode, then open the Disk Utility tool. Click 'First Aid', then check your disk for possible issues.](https://static-cdn.mackeeper.com/mk-blog-upload/images/new_089e681f2c.jpg)
Pro tip from us: Diagnosing hardware-related issues can be tricky, and the tools built into macOS can only take you so far. If you need more help, check out our Premium Services . We offer expert help, 24/7, for all your technical issues—not just those related to Macs.
12. Free up disk space on your Mac
It’s never a good idea to let your Mac’s storage get too full. The less space you have, the more your computer will struggle, and that could be why Safari is lagging. Whether you have an iMac, Mac mini, MacBook Air, or any other Apple computer, an overflowing hard drive or SSD is a big no-no.
How do you free up space on your Mac ? Just do as follows:
- In System Settings , go to General > Storage . Next to Applications , click the info icon.
- Click Last Accessed to sort the column and put the least used apps at the top. Select an app and click Delete .
- Click Delete to remove the app. Enter your password and click OK .
- Now, work your way through all the Storage settings like this, removing any files you don’t need.
![safari is slow to load safari is slow to load](https://static-cdn.mackeeper.com/mk-blog-upload/images/new_30bd105f47.png)
- How to prevent Safari from running slowly on Mac
Keeping Safari in top shape is crucial for a great web browsing experience. There are a few ways to make sure Safari doesn’t start running slow:
- Avoid having too many open tabs.
- Shut down unwanted apps and processes.
- Cut down on the number of active extensions.
- Occasionally clear your Safari cache.
- Don’t let your Mac’s system drive get too full.
- Keep your macOS and Safari up to date.
It’s also important to keep other apps up to date as well, as they can also potentially cause Safari to slow down. If you’re looking for an easy way to update your apps, try MacKeeper’s Update Tracker . It will update all your favorite apps with a single click, saving you time and effort.
- Full steam ahead
It’s no fun having a slow web browser, so hopefully, one of the fixes in our guide has helped you to get Safari back up to speed. If you’re still struggling, then give MacKeeper a try . It’s packed with features that can help you identify and fix issues with your Mac, and its Update Tracker means you never need to worry about out-of-date apps slowing you down.
- FAQ about Safari performance on Mac
1. How do I make Safari work better?
There are many different ways to improve Safari’s performance, including:
- Clearing Safari’s cache
- Removing unnecessary extensions
- Resetting Safari’s preferences
- Closing down unnecessary Safari tabs
- Updating Safari and macOS
- Changing your DNS servers
- Configuring Safari’s autofill settings
2. Why is Safari being extremely slow?
If your Safari browser is slow, it might be caused by a slow internet connection. Check that first with a speed testing site. If that shows your internet connection is fine, then other causes for Safari to run slowly include:
- Too many tabs being open
- Lots of background processes holding back your system
- Out-of-date apps
- Problematic extensions
- Too much cached data in Safari
3. How do I accelerate Safari settings?
To fix a slow Safari browser, you should:
- Clear your Safari cache.
- Close all unnecessary tabs.
- Shut down any apps you’re not using.
- Close background processes with Activity Monitor.
- Update Safari and macOS.
- Change your DNS settings.
- Turn off or manage autofill.
- Reset your Safari to factory settings.
- Free up disk space on your Mac.
- Run First Aid on your system drive.
4. How do I stop my Safari from lagging?
Ideally, you want to prevent Safari from ever getting slow in the first place. Some steps to follow:
- Don’t open loads of tabs at once.
- Shut down apps after you’re finished with them.
- Don’t install loads of extensions.
- Make sure to clear your Safari cache every now and then.
- Try not to let your Mac’s storage get too full.
- Make sure you keep macOS, Safari, and all other apps up to date.
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- Delete unnecessary system files and caches
- Free up GBs of storage space
- Easily find and delete duplicate files
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Safari Running Slow? – Here are Some Quick Fixes!
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Apple’s Safari is known to be amongst the best browsers due to its fast performance and simple interface. However, it can still run into performance issues that can be frustrating. There could be a multitude of reasons for Safari running slower than usual. So, we tried a few simple methods that might be able to fix the issue and get back on track.
Some possible reasons for this issue are the build-up of cache or cookies, outdated browsers, extensions, or plug-ins that are not being used. Once you are able to identify the issue, you can simply follow the steps to remove cache and extensions or even update the browser.
Well, let us look at everything we need to know in detail and figure out all the methods that might work best for you.
Why Is Safari So Slow?
1. build-up cache and cookies, 2. software update, 3. extensions and plug-ins issue, 4. large number of open tabs, 5. network issues, 6. limited storage space, 7. contact apple support, frequently asked questions.
Your Safari browser is running slow because of the build-up of cache and cookies. Or it could even be because you are using an outdated version of the browser, and it needs an immediate update. Furthermore, this could be simply because too many tabs are open on the system, and thus it is eventually slowing down the entire software.
As we said, this could be because of any underlying cause. You can fix all of it by simply restarting the system or the browser itself. Or you might need to try other methods that can take a few more steps. Here are some fixes you can try that worked for us too.
7 Reasons Why Safari is Running Slow + Fixes
We all know the basic idea behind using cache and cookies. They are used by websites or the system to speed up your browsing experience. However, the more you are active on the internet, the more these files are piled up over time.
Hence, there isn’t enough space for the browser or the system to store any more of these small files. So, we need to eliminate these to fix your Safari issues. Here is how you can do it.
- Open Safari Browser.
- Now, click on History on the top taskbar and choose Clear History in the drop-down menu.
![Build-Up Cache and Cookies Build-Up Cache and Cookies](https://macmyths.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Build-Up-Cache-and-Cookies.png)
- Select the time duration besides the Clear option, then click on Clear History.
![Clear History Clear History](https://macmyths.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Clear-History.png)
The above steps will clear the history and the cookies from the site. Now close Safari and start again to check if the issue is fixed.
Here is another way you can empty caches on the Safari browser.
- Open the Safari browser and click on Develop on the top taskbar.
![Safari browser Safari browser](https://macmyths.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Safari-browser-1024x48.png)
- Now, from the drop-down menu option, select Empty Caches or press Option + Command + E.
![Empty Caches Empty Caches](https://macmyths.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Empty-Caches.png)
Another method you can try is updating the Safari browser by updating your macOS . Since Safari is an in-built software developed by the tech giant itself, they often release updates to fix such errors.
Here is how you can check for updates and update your Safari app when needed.
- Go to the Apple menu and then choose System Settings .
- Then click on Software Update.
- Wait a few seconds for the system to check for an available update. Install the update if available.
![Software Update Software Update](https://macmyths.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Software-Update.png)
Once you update your macOS, your Safari app will also be updated. You can then wait for the system to restart and check if the app works fine.
Some extensions or plug-ins might be outdated and cause your Safari to slow down and cause performance issues. Hence, you can update or uninstall these extensions from your system.
You can follow the steps below to check which extensions you are currently using and then uninstall the ones you are not using anymore.
- Open Safari browser.
- Go to the Safari option on the taskbar and choose Settings.
![Extensions and Plug-ins Issue Extensions and Plug-ins Issue](https://macmyths.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Extensions-and-Plug-ins-Issue.png)
- Now, click on the Extensions option on the menu bar.
- Next, choose the Extension you want to remove and select Uninstall.
![Unistall Extension Unistall Extension](https://macmyths.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Unistall-Extension-1024x783.png)
You can keep doing this for all the extensions you do not want to keep and uninstall them from your browser. This will eventually speed up the performance of Safari.
Have you been currently using too many tabs on your Safari browser? Well, this could be one of the biggest reasons your Safari browser has slowed down or even glitched overall. The best way to go from here is simply close some tabs and give your browser a breather.
If that does not work, you might have to close the browser and restart the system. For this, simply right-click the Safari icon in the dock below. Press Quit and the browser will close with all its tabs.
Before trying out any other solution, it is best to check your internet connection and ensure it works properly. Your network issues might be causing the website and other downloads to slow down.
Ensure your router is properly connected or your MacBook receives a proper internet connection. For this, you can check your internet speed through multiple sites on the web. If everything looks fine, you can try the other methods listed below.
You might need to clear some storage space on your Mac . Some apps fail to function because your system does not have enough space to run the in-built apps such as Safari.
For this, you can check the current status of your storage on Mac and determine how you can make space for the system apps to run smoothly.
- Go to the Apple menu and choose System Settings .
- Scroll down to open General and then choose Storage.
![Limited Storage Space Limited Storage Space](https://macmyths.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Limited-Storage-Space-1024x717.png)
Here, you can check all the sections that have taken up the maximum space and then delete some of the files.
The last resort here is to contact Apple support for some guidance. Although you can also check for some hardware issues, it is best to speak to an executive from Apple support.
Simply visit the official Apple website and connect to an online executive where you can present your issues and try their suggested fixes.
Check our article on How to Add More Storage to MacBook’s?
You can start by updating the macOS, which will, in turn, update the Safari app as well. Moreever, you can also clear caches and cookies to help bring the safari to speed.
Safari is known to be faster on Apple devices such as your MacBook. At the same time, Google Chrome performs the best on all devices, including your smartphones. However, it depends largely on the operating system and the device’s hardware.
The fastest browser for Apple is indeed Safari. It is built for macOS and iOS devices, providing an optimized browsing experience.
The fixes to a slow-running Safari are simple. Clearing your cache, updating the app or your macOS, closing unwanted tabs, and clearing storage space are all excellent ways of ensuring your Apple search engine runs perfectly.
If these do not work, you can check your internet connection and close the tabs you are working on. The more tabs you have opened, the slower it will work. Similarly, there are other methods too that are tried and tested to fix Safari issues, and you can try them as well before contacting Apple Support.
Kanika Modi
Kanika is a Tech Enthusiast who is looking to add meaning to what people read. She has been writing on Apple devices and products for 7 years now and continues to share the solution to your everyday issues with everything technology.
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Why is My Safari So Slow on Mac and How to Fix It
![safari is slow to load Avatar photo](https://www.softwarehow.com/wp-content/uploads/tyler-45x45.jpg)
Whether you use the Safari internet browser for your everyday work, school work, online shopping, or simple internet browsing, having it work slowly can be extremely frustrating. This is completely understandable, but don’t worry we are here to help!
As someone who frequently helps people fix up their slow Macs, I can say from experience that Safari can often be the cause of a lot of problems. But the good news is that you don’t have to put up with Safari running slowly—there are a few quick troubleshooting tips you can use to get back in business.
Let’s explore why Safari is running so slow on your Mac and how you can fix it.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
Solution #1: verify your internet connection, solution #2: force quit safari, solution #3: update macos, solution #4: close excessive tabs, solution #5: disable extensions, solution #6: turn off icloud private relay – icloud+ only, solution #7: disable search engine suggestions, solution #8: disable autofill, solution #9: update dns server, solution #10: run first aid on ssd , safe mode – intel mac, safe mode – apple silicon mac, solution #12: use a 3rd-party web browser cleaner, final thoughts.
- Safari has many features that attempt to either help you as the user or make the experience faster. Unfortunately, Safari can sometimes get bogged down.
- Your internet connection should be one of the first things you check. Make sure everything is functioning properly here.
- You can get Safari out of a jam by Force Quitting , and reopening.
- If that doesn’t work, you can check your extensions , your iCloud Private Relay , and Autofill to ensure that your Safari is running as fast as possible.
- The DNS server can sometimes cause issues with Safari running slowly, so make sure that it is updated.
- If none of that works, you can also check to make sure your boot drive and your startup options are working properly. Run First Aid on your SSD and boot into Safe Mode to finish troubleshooting.
While Safari is preinstalled on your Mac and is updated using macOS, this doesn’t mean that it will always work perfectly. When Safari runs slow on your Mac, it can put a damper on your whole experience. You end up waiting on your computer and getting frustrated. So, what is causing this? And how can you fix it?
Here are some ways that we can hopefully get your Safari speed up.
This may sound obvious, but you may be surprised how easy it is to overlook losing your internet connection or other connection problems. Safari may not be working or may be running extremely slowly because of a faulty internet connection.
There are multiple items that could affect your internet connection. Be sure to verify all of the following:
- You have full internet connectivity from your internet provider (if you are able to reach it, speedtest.net is a good way to determine if your internet is working to its fullest capacity).
- Your modem and/or router are in working condition (the lights on the device will help you determine this. Look at or find the owner’s manual for your device if you have questions)
- There are not too many devices on your network (I would recommend taking off some that you may not think of and are not currently using, such as phones, tablets, gaming consoles, and smart home devices).
By force quitting the Safari application , we are forcing any processes that may be stuck to stop. This can help Safari fully restart and stop trying to load something that may not be properly loading. To force quit Safari, take the following steps:
Press the Command-Option-Esc keys simultaneously on your keyboard.
Choose Safari from the menu and choose Force Quit .
![safari is slow to load](https://www.softwarehow.com/wp-content/uploads/Safari-So-Slow-Mac-Fix4.png)
Click on Force Quit to confirm.
![safari is slow to load](https://www.softwarehow.com/wp-content/uploads/Safari-So-Slow-Mac-Fix13.png)
As we have briefly discussed earlier, Safari is an application that is fully managed by Apple and updated along with macOS. So, if there is a problem with the Safari application itself, it is likely that Apple already knows and has released a patch to address it.
To ensure your Mac is up to date with the latest version, take the following steps:
Using the Apple Menu, choose System Settings from the drop-down.
![safari is slow to load](https://www.softwarehow.com/wp-content/uploads/Safari-So-Slow-Mac-Fix18.png)
Navigate to General on the left, then Software Update on the right.
![safari is slow to load](https://www.softwarehow.com/wp-content/uploads/Safari-So-Slow-Mac-Fix5.png)
If there is a software update available, choose Update Now and follow the onscreen prompts to update macOS.
![safari is slow to load](https://www.softwarehow.com/wp-content/uploads/Safari-So-Slow-Mac-Fix8.png)
If you are someone who never closes your browser tabs and has dozens of pages open at once (like I am guilty of doing most of the time), then I would suggest closing a good amount of them to get Safari working at a better speed.
Having a large amount of tabs open, even ones that are not currently in use, uses not only a lot of processing power but also a lot of Random Access Memory (RAM) .
Both of these items have a large impact on how the applications on your Mac run and can cause the Safari application to slow down significantly. So, close all possible tabs.
Extensions, also known on some internet browsers as plug-ins can be very helpful features. The most popular of these are ad blockers, coupon finders, and grammar checkers. If you use any of these or others, it is possible that they could be slowing down your Safari.
It is also possible that extensions could have been inadvertently downloaded from the internet and enabled themselves. Check to make sure that there are no unrecognized extensions or an excessive amount of extensions enabled.
With Safari Open, click the Safari menu and Settings from the drop-down.
![safari is slow to load](https://www.softwarehow.com/wp-content/uploads/Safari-So-Slow-Mac-Fix9.png)
On the top, choose Extensions .
![safari is slow to load](https://www.softwarehow.com/wp-content/uploads/Safari-So-Slow-Mac-Fix19.png)
On the left, the blue check marks indicate that the extension is enabled. Click these to show the gray checkbox and disable the chosen extensions.
If you find any extensions that you do not recognize, select them on the left (it will be shown in blue) and click uninstall on the right. Follow any onscreen instructions to finish uninstalling.
While iCloud Private Relay is a convenient and easy safety feature, however, it requires that your internet browsing passes through Apple servers prior to reaching your computer. This means that it could slow down your internet speed.
Click the Apple Menu and System Settings .
![safari is slow to load](https://www.softwarehow.com/wp-content/uploads/Safari-So-Slow-Mac-Fix12.png)
On the left, click your name, and on the right click iCloud .
![safari is slow to load](https://www.softwarehow.com/wp-content/uploads/Safari-So-Slow-Mac-Fix6.png)
Scroll down to the iCloud+ features and ensure that Private Relay is turned off. If it is not, click on it and click the slider to turn it off. You may be asked to confirm by clicking “ Turn off iCloud Relay .”
![safari is slow to load](https://www.softwarehow.com/wp-content/uploads/Safari-So-Slow-Mac-Fix1.png)
Search engine suggestions are a predictive feature when you are using Safari. They are designed to predict what you may be searching for and help you to find it easier. However, it is possible that they can be slowing down your Safari. Take the following steps to check:
With Safari open, choose the Safari menu and Settings.
![safari is slow to load](https://www.softwarehow.com/wp-content/uploads/Safari-So-Slow-Mac-Fix7.png)
In the Search tab at the top, deselect the “Include Search Engine Suggestions” check box. It will show as a gray box when it is deselected.
![safari is slow to load](https://www.softwarehow.com/wp-content/uploads/Safari-So-Slow-Mac-Fix10.png)
Another Safari feature, while helpful when it works properly, can also slow down the application is the Autofill feature. Autofill sometimes has a hard time accessing the information and may cause Safari to freeze.
In Safari Settings (described how to reach above), Choose the Autofill tab at the top. Deselect all the Autofill features below. The items are deselected when they show a gray box instead of a blue checkmark.
![safari is slow to load](https://www.softwarehow.com/wp-content/uploads/Safari-So-Slow-Mac-Fix3.png)
A Domain Name System Server (DNS Server) is a program that tells your computer and the internet what IP Address your computer or a website is using. By updating your DNS server you can not only improve your internet speed (and therefore your Safari speed), you can also improve your security.
Some of the most popular DNS Server IP Addresses are those for Google, 8.8.8.8, and 8.8.4.4. The DNS Server 1.1.1.1 is allegedly considered to be the fastest in the world (though I am not confident in how or when that was recently confirmed).
To update your DNS server, take the following steps:
Choose the Apple Menu and System Settings .
![safari is slow to load](https://www.softwarehow.com/wp-content/uploads/Safari-So-Slow-Mac-Fix11.png)
On the left, select Network , and on the right, select Details under the Wi-Fi section.
![safari is slow to load](https://www.softwarehow.com/wp-content/uploads/Safari-So-Slow-Mac-Fix15.png)
On the left, choose DNS . On the right, use the + button to add any of the DNS Servers that we have discussed (or others you may have found in your search).
Note : it is OK to have more than one DNS Server—if one is down, your computer will use another one in your list.
![safari is slow to load](https://www.softwarehow.com/wp-content/uploads/Safari-So-Slow-Mac-Fix14.png)
Your Solid State Drive or SSD is a critical piece for the speed of your Mac. If all the other fixes up to this point did not work, it is possible that there may be an error on your SSD. First Aid will automatically check and fix most errors related to the formatting of your SSD.
Open Disk Utility in Launchpad.
![safari is slow to load](https://www.softwarehow.com/wp-content/uploads/Safari-So-Slow-Mac-Fix17.png)
Choose First Aid and follow the onscreen instructions.
![safari is slow to load](https://www.softwarehow.com/wp-content/uploads/Safari-So-Slow-Mac-Fix2.png)
Solution #11: Boot in Safe Mode
Lastly, Safe Mode is a great way to determine if you are having further issues that are causing Safari to be extremely slow. Safe Mode disables your startup settings and features and any third-party items. If your Safari is running slowly for either of these reasons, you will be able to see using Safe Mode.
Take the following steps to boot into safe mode, depending on which type of Mac you have:
- Restart or turn on your Mac and press and hold the Shift key.
- When the login window appears, you can release the key and login.
- You may be asked to log in again, do so. You will see Safe Mode in the menu bar if this was successful.
- Turn on your Mac and press and hold the power button until you see the Loading Startup Options screen.
- If asked, select a volume.
- Press and hold the shift key and click Continue in Safe Mode. Your Mac will automatically restart.
- If successful, you will see Safe Mode in the menu bar.
Sometimes Safari doesn’t work properly when you have too much junk on your computer. A good 3rd-party application like CCleaner or CleanMyMac X can work wonders to optimize your system by getting rid of junk, including things like browser data and temp files.
CCleaner for Mac , for example, has a Browser clean-up tool that automatically scans and removes browsing data, caches, temporary files, cookies, and other tracking data.
![safari is slow to load](https://www.softwarehow.com/wp-content/uploads/Safari-So-Slow-Mac-Fix16.png)
This can go a long way in speeding up Safari, and even helping out the rest of your computer too. While there is a paid version of the software, you can get quite far with the free version. So, it is worth a shot if you want an easy solution to Safari running slowly.
We have covered a lot of ground and talked about a lot of different options that could be causing your Safari Application to be slow. We first explored the more simple options, such as your internet connection being down, your Safari application needing to be updated, having a lot of tabs open, and clearing history.
Your extensions possibly cause loading problems, your iCloud Private Relay, Search Engine Suggestions, and Autofill are also things you should check. If all else fails, you should look at two pieces of your Mac that could be affecting Safari as well, your SSD and the startup options.
If the rest of your Mac seems to be running fine enough to download another application, you could try a 3rd-party tool like CCleaner to clean up browsing data and other junk that could slow down Safari.
What did you learn from this article? What worked for you? Let us know in the comments!
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How to Troubleshoot Safari if It’s Running Slow on Mac
![safari is slow to load](https://macreports.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/kurt-avatar--48x48.jpg)
This article shows how you can fix the Safari browser if it is slow on your Mac. The purpose is to help speed up Apple’s Safari or determine why it is running slow. If you are experiencing one of the following issues, you can use this article to address your problem:
- Safari is so slow and seems frozen.
- Websites are taking a lot of time to load or videos are lagging.
- A spinning beach ball frequently keeps appearing when attempting to browse the Web.
- Clicking the Safari options (history, bookmarks, etc) temporarily causes Safari to freeze or become sluggish.
![safari is slow to load Safari Slow](https://macreports.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/safari-slow.jpg)
There could be many reasons why you experience this issue. Follow the steps below:
1. Is the Mac up to date?
Ensure that your Mac is running the latest versions of the macOS version . Safari is a built-in app and the macOS software includes Safari. This means that updating macOS will also update Safari. You can go to System Preferences > Software Update to check for updates. And if there is an update, click the Update Now button to update your Mac.
![safari is slow to load Update Mac](https://macreports.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/update-mac-1024x348.png)
![](http://playon.fun/777/templates/cheerup/res/banner1.gif)
2. Is it your Internet connection?
You may feel that Safari is sluggish because you may have a poor or unstable connection to the Internet. Use another browser (Chrome, Firefox, etc) to visit a website. Or try using multiple devices in your home. Do you still experience that your browsing experience is slow? If your answer is yes, then the problem may be your connection. Is the slowness just with one website or with all of the websites you try to visit? If the problem is with just one website, then the problem is that website. However, if all of the websites appear to be slow on all devices and/or using different browsers, the problem may be, again, your connection. If this is the case, try:
- Ensure that your Mac has the latest version of macOS (System Preferences > Software Update).
- Turn off your Mac (Apple menu > Shut Down), do not turn it on yet.
- Restart your modem/router. Simply unplug it from power, wait 30 seconds and then plug it back in.
- Wait for your modem/router to fully function (ensure that all of the indicator lights are on).
- Turn on your Mac by pressing the power button.
- Mac Wi-Fi Connected But No Internet Access
- My Mac Stopped Seeing My Wi-Fi Network, Fix
- How To Forget Wi-Fi Networks On Mac
- How To Fix Slow Wi-Fi Problems On Your Macbook
- How To Reset Network Settings On Mac
3. Too much cache? Clear your cache on Safari on your Mac
As you use Safari to visit websites, cache data will accumulate and this can possibly slow the browser down. Clearing the cache on your Safari browser will ensure that it’s working smoothly and efficiently. The Safari cache is a pile of temporary website data. Here is how you can clear cache in Safari on your Mac:
- Open Safari.
- Click Safari > Preferences.
- Click the Advanced tab.
- Check the box next to the “Show Develop menu in menu bar” option. Now a new menu item called Develop will appear.
- Now exit Preferences.
- Click Develop and Empty Caches.
![safari is slow to load Safari Develop menu](https://macreports.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/show-develop-safari-1024x532.png)
4. Are your extensions causing this?
An extension or add-on may cause this problem. Do you have these installed? If your answer is yes, try the following:
We can turn off Safari Extensions temporarily to see if they are causing this:
- In Safari, click Safari > Preferences.
- Click Extensions.
- You will see your installed extensions.
- Turn all them off by deselecting the checkboxes.
Now check Safari. Is it faster now? If turning off extensions resolves the issue, now determine the problematic extension that is causing this issue. Turn them back on, one by one, until you find the problematic extension. After each extension, you turn it on, test to see if the problem has recurred before turning on the next extension.
![safari is slow to load Safari Extensions](https://macreports.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/safari-extensions-1024x755.png)
5. Safe Mode
Restart your Mac in Safe Mode . Safe Mode will clear some system caches. This can improve Safari’s performance. The steps will differ depending on the Mac type you have: Apple silicon or Intel. If you do not know, go to the Apple menu > About this Mac.
Apple silicon:
- Turn off your Mac.
- Press and hold the power button until the startup options window appears.
- Click your startup disk.
- Press and hold the Shift key and click “Continue in Safe Mode.”
- Turn on your Mac and quickly press and hold the Shift key.
- Release the Shift key when you see the login window.
Your Mac is in Safe Mode . Test Safari. Then exit Safari (just restart your Mac). Then test Safari again.
- Passwords on Safari: The Spinning Wheel – How to Fix the Lag
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- How to Create, View, Edit, and Restore Bookmarks in Safari on Mac
- Safari Can’t Open The Page Because Safari Can’t Establish A Secure Connection To The Server, Fix
- Quit Safari Is Grayed Out On Mac, Fix
- Is Safari Not Working on Mac? How You Can Fix It
- Safari Isn’t Responding, Keeps Crashing or Freezing, Fix
- Safari Won’t Open On Mac, Fix
![safari is slow to load](https://macreports.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/kurt-avatar--96x96.jpg)
Dr. Serhat Kurt worked as a Senior Technology Director specializing in Apple solutions for small and medium-sized educational institutions. He holds a doctoral degree (or doctorate) from the University of Illinois at Urbana / Champaign and a master’s degree from Purdue University. He is a former faculty member. Here is his LinkedIn profile and Google Scholar profile . Email Serhat Kurt .
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Is Safari running too slow on Mac? Tips to speed it up
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Apple Safari has emerged as one of the most advanced web browsers designed to be used on iOS and OS X platforms. Apart from being more secure and fast, it has plenty of features like, Private mode to immensely enhance user-experience. No wonder Apple device owners really enjoy using it; even though there are some equally competent web browsers are available.
There are times when Safari begins to run rather slowly on Mac. Even when there is a good network on the device, Apple’s web browser becomes very lethargic. And, in case you are not much aware of how it fix this annoying issue, you are bound to feel disappointed with it.
Having already posted an article as to how you can accelerate Safari on your iPhone and iPad, we are going to walk you through the handy tips through which you can speed-up Safari on your Mac as well. Let’s dive ahead!
Why is Safari slow on Mac?
There’s a host of reasons why Safari might be lagging or running slower than usual on your Mac. It could be anything from overloading your system with multitasking to simply not maintaining your computer or the Safari app.
Regular upkeep and a few tweaks can make a world of difference in performance. But it’s also important to note that it’s also normal for Safari to run slow during certain situations, such as browsing sites loaded with ads and videos—especially those on auto-play.
How to fix Safari running slow on Mac
Let’s explore how to make Safari run faster on Mac with some strategies.
1. Check internet speed on your Mac
It’s essential to first rule out connectivity issues when Safari is running very slow on your Mac. Since internet speed is vital in how quickly pages load, why not check your connection before you start troubleshooting?
![Is Safari running too slow on Mac Tips to speed it up Speed Test](https://www.igeeksblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Speed-Test.png)
Head to online speed test sites like SpeedTest.net to gauge your internet speed.
2. Close unwanted tabs and windows
While Safari can handle dozens of tabs opened at a time, each open tab and window does tap into your Mac’s power and memory.
Excessive tabs can gradually impede your Mac’s performance, leading to longer page load times and unpredictable browser behavior.
3. Force Quit Safari on Mac
Occasionally, a page or app may overtax your system’s resources, leading Safari to freeze or run slow. A quick fix is to quit Safari and start it up again. This terminates any demanding processes and gives the browser a clean slate to work from.
- To do this, go to the Dock and control-click Safari .
- Press the Option key → Select Force Quit .
![Is Safari running too slow on Mac Tips to speed it up Quit and relaunch Safari on Mac](https://www.igeeksblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Quit-and-relaunch-Safari-on-Mac.jpg)
4. Quit other apps
If a dozen apps run simultaneously in the background along with Safari, it’s not unusual for it to become sluggish.
- Head to your Dock and quit apps you’re no longer using.
- Just look at every app with a dot below it.
- Control-click it and select Quit .
5. Kill resource-intensive apps and processes
Aside from apps, having too many apps running can also affect Safari’s performance. Some of these apps tend to hog more resources than others. If Safari is acting up and you’re using several apps at a time, head to the Activity Monitor to see which ones consume too much power and memory.
- To do this, open Launchpad → click the Other folder → Activity Monitor.
![Is Safari running too slow on Mac Tips to speed it up Open Launchpad click the Other folder Activity Monitor](https://www.igeeksblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Open-Launchpad-click-the-Other-folder-Activity-Monitor.jpg)
- Additionally, if an app is too resource-intensive, consider creating a web app for it instead, which generally requires less power and memory.
6. Remove unwanted Safari extensions from your Mac
Extensions allow Safari to do more, but it does come with a cost—some tend to be resource-intensive and overload your CPU and RAM.
![Is Safari running too slow on Mac Tips to speed it up Go to Safari Settings](https://www.igeeksblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Go-to-Safari-Settings.jpg)
7. Update Safari
Updating Safari on your Mac helps ensure the app has the necessary improvements and features to run faster and smoother. For newer Macs, Safari updates are bundled with macOS updates. However, you can apply just the updates related to Safari.
- Go to System Settings , if there’s a software update available, you’ll see a Software Update Available under your Apple ID.
- Otherwise, you can head to General → Software Update.
![Is Safari running too slow on Mac Tips to speed it up Go to more info icon for specific Safari update](https://www.igeeksblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Go-to-more-info-icon-for-specific-Safari-update.jpg)
8. Restart your Mac
This may sound cliché already, but sometimes, all your Mac needs is a quick reboot to fix any performance issues affecting it or any of your apps.
9. Clear Safari’s cache and cookies on Mac
Web browsers such as Safari enhance browsing by storing data like cookies and cache, which can speed up load times. Additionally, Safari keeps a record of your recently visited web pages.
Though helpful, these can accumulate over time, causing your Safari to run slower than usual. A quick tip to determine if the accumulated history, cookies, and caches are to blame is to try browsing in a private window. Since Private Browsing mode doesn’t retain browsing data, it can serve as a good benchmark for comparison.
Regularly deleting Safari’s browsing history, cache, and cookies is an important habit to keep Safari in tip-top shape.
- If the method above doesn’t work, you can manually delete the cache by going to Finder .
- Go to the menu bar and click Go → Go to Folder .
- Enter the command below, open the folder, and drag the . db file to the Trash.
10. Use Safari from a new user account on Mac
It’s possible that the issue runs deeper and has seeped into your user account. To check, you can create another user account on your Mac and try using Safari on that account as you would typically do. If Safari runs faster on that account, you’ll need to repair your original account using Disk Utility.
- Search for Disk Utility on Spotlight → Select your account’s disk .
![Is Safari running too slow on Mac Tips to speed it up Select your account disk and click first aid](https://www.igeeksblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Select-your-account-disk-and-click-first-aid-scaled-1.jpg)
- If you can’t see this option, choose Verify Disk first.
This process will repair any problems within your account.
11. Disable Search Suggestions in Safari on Mac
Safari’s Smart Search Field simplifies browsing by allowing you to enter URLs or search terms directly into the address bar. The Safari Search Suggestions feature further enhances it.
It works like Google’s recommended search results, offering recommendations such as apps to refine and intuitively guide your search experience. To turn off Search Suggestions in Safari:
- Open Safari → Click Safari in the menu bar → Pick Settings .
![Is Safari running too slow on Mac Tips to speed it up Disable Search Suggestions](https://www.igeeksblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Disable-Search-Suggestions.jpg)
12. Switch DNS provider
The Domain Name System (DSN) is a cataloging system that translates website names into IP addresses. By default, your DSN settings are provided by an ISP. Sometimes, this may be overloaded or slow, so changing to a faster DNS provider may boost your internet speed and, consequently, Safari’s performance.
- To do this, go to System Settings → Network .
- Click Details beside the WiFi/Ethernet you’re currently connected to.
- Select the DNS tab.
![Is Safari running too slow on Mac Tips to speed it up Switch DNS provider](https://www.igeeksblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Switch-DNS-provider.jpg)
13. Disable Autofill on Mac
To provide a more intuitive experience, Safari has an Autofill function, which completes forms detected online using stored information on your Mac. The downside is that this may sometimes cause Safari to tag.
![Is Safari running too slow on Mac Tips to speed it up Disable Autofill on Mac](https://www.igeeksblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Disable-Autofill-on-Mac.jpg)
Deselect all the types of information you don’t want Safari to autofill. Deselect all to turn off the function entirely.
14. Scan your Mac for malware
While rare, your Mac can get infected with a virus, which can inadvertently affect your Mac’s performance. Check our guide on the most common viruses affecting Mac and what you can do to remove them .
15. Update your Mac with latest macOS
If your Mac isn’t running on the latest macOS, it’s best to update it to the latest version available. This is because Apple sends bug fixes and other enhancements in every update so your Mac runs smoothly. To update your Mac:
- Head to the Apple menu → System Settings .
- Go to General → Software Update .
- If there’s an update available, click Update Now .
16. Disable DNS Prefetching
Safari enhances your browsing experience by using DNS Prefetching to speed up webpage loading times. This process reduces the delay between when you click and when the webpage display appears because your browser already knows the address it needs to retrieve the page.
Ironically, this can slow down Safari or become unresponsive.
- To turn this off, go to Finder → Applications → Utilities → Terminal .
![Is Safari running too slow on Mac Tips to speed it up Disable DNS Prefetching](https://www.igeeksblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Disable-DNS-Prefetching.jpg)
- Hit Enter and relaunch Safari .
17. Reset Safari to its factory default on Mac
If nothing seems else to work, underlying issues or corrupt browser preferences may be the culprit behind your Safari running very slow on your Mac. Resetting your Safari to its default state may fix the problem, as this reverts its browser settings to default and deactivates all the extensions. To do this:
- Open Finder .
- Select Go → Go to Folder . Then do the following, one after the other:
- Type ~/Library/Preferences/directory in the text field → Search for the com.apple.Safari.plist file → Delete .
- Type ~/Library/Safari/ → Delete all the files in the folder except for the Bookmarks/plist
- Type ~/Library/Containers/ , look for Safari → Delete all the files and folders.
- Once done, open Safari. On the menu bar, click Preferences → Privacy . Select Remove All Website Data and Reset Safari.
- Head to the Extensions tab and reactivate only the essential extensions you need. Move between the other tabs and modify other browser settings to your preference.
18. Boot your Mac into Safe Mode
Another way to troubleshoot for errors is to boot your Mac into Safe Mode . Safe Mode starts up your Mac without launching certain software and extensions, which can conflict with Safari. It also runs a check of your startup disk, so it can help resolve underlying issues that may be affecting Safari’s speed.
While booting your Mac in Safe Mode doesn’t really make Safari run faster during regular use, it’s a helpful tool that can help you find out why your Mac is so slow and give you an idea of how to make Safari run faster on Mac.
Wrapping up…
Experiencing a sluggish Safari can be frustrating, but many potential culprits can cause this. The suggestions listed above are designed to help you understand how to speed up Safari on Mac. Did you find these solutions effective? If so, feel free to share your experience in the comments below!
- Safari vs. Chrome: Which browser is better for iPhone and Mac?
- Safari not working on Mac after update? 10 Ways to fix it!
- 14 Ways to fix YouTube videos not playing on Mac’s Safari
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Safari Too Slow on Your iPhone? 4 Ways to Speed It Up
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Safari is the native browser on Apple devices. While it's usually fast, sometimes Safari can be slow or laggy. When this happens, it can be bothersome, and some might even download another third-party browser.
If you're noticing that Safari is running slow on your iPhone, there are several things you can do to speed it up again. Give these tips a try, and hopefully, Safari will be at full speed in no time.
Check Your Internet Speed
Before passing the blame on Safari, it might be a good idea to check your internet speed. That way, you can make sure Safari is the issue and rule out anything else before continuing.
If you're connected to Wi-Fi, open another computer or device on the same Wi-Fi network, then head to Speedtest's site and check your internet speed. You won't want to do this on your iPhone, as Safari issues can slow your connection time, giving you a false negative.
If your internet speed is fast, then Safari is the issue, and it's time to fix it.
1. Close All Your Safari Tabs
Safari can usually handle a lot of bandwidth and keep many pages open. However, some websites drain Safari data. By closing all the currently open tabs, you can confirm if one of the open websites was using too much data.
To close all the tabs on Safari, open Safari and hold the Tab button in the bottom right-hand corner. A prompt will appear for you to close all the tabs. Once this appears, hit Close All Tabs . Then, give Safari a try again.
2. Clear Your Browsing History and Data
If clearing the tabs didn't fix the issue, you can reset Safari and clear up the cache, speeding it up in the process. To clear Safari, head to Settings > Safari > Clear History and Data .
Once you do this, relaunch Safari and see if it's loading up pages quickly enough. If it's faster for a little while but begins to slow down again, proceed to the next tip.
3. Check Your iPhone's Storage
If your iPhone storage is almost full, that means it can't handle much else. Safari, like most apps, uses device storage to store data from the app. And low storage means Safari won't have enough memory to work.
This is why some users find Safari temporarily faster once they clear their browsing history and data. However, some users might have used so much storage that Safari might not even speed up when you clear the cache.
Luckily, it's easy to check if this is an issue. All you need to do is head to Settings > General > Storage and see how much space your iPhone has used. And if it's almost full, you might have to delete some large files.
However, if you don't want to lose precious data, consider signing up for a paid iCloud plan .
4. Reset Network Settings
When all else fails, you can reset your iPhone's Network Settings. Doing this will reset all network-related connections on your iPhone, hopefully speeding up Safari in the process. Head to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings to do this.
Once you do this, you'll need to set up your network connections again. This means re-entering your Wi-Fi passwords. However, it can clear up a lot of bugs, so it is worth a try if all else fails. You can also reset your iPhone to factory settings as a last resort.
Browse Seamlessly in Safari
Safari comes pre-installed on all Apple devices, including the iPhone, iPad, and Mac. And since it's the native browser, it works seamlessly across all your apps and Apple devices.
While switching to a third-party browser like Chrome might seem tempting when Safari is slow or lagging, you'll miss out on a seamless experience. So, it's worth taking the time to fix whatever issue you're facing.
- Safari Browser
- iPhone Troubleshooting
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