macOS · System Info
View Detailed Hardware & Software Info
System Report (opened via the System Information app) provides a full technical inventory of your Mac — every connected device, installed application, network configuration, and hardware component — far beyond the summary shown in About This Mac. It's the tool Apple Support usually asks you to check when diagnosing hardware issues.
How to open System Report
- Hold Option and click the Apple menu, then choose 'System Information'.
- Alternatively, open About This Mac and click 'More Info', then 'System Report'.
- Browse the sidebar categories like Hardware, Network, or Software.
- Use File → Save or Export to save a copy of the report if support asks for it.
What you should know
- Lists detailed hardware specs: processor, memory modules, graphics, storage, and connected displays.
- Shows every USB, Bluetooth, Thunderbolt, and network device currently connected.
- Displays installed applications along with their version numbers and install locations.
- Includes diagnostic logs useful for troubleshooting crashes or hardware faults.
Why it matters
When troubleshooting hardware problems, compatibility issues, or verifying exact specs before selling or upgrading a Mac, System Report gives the precise technical detail that About This Mac's summary leaves out. Support technicians frequently rely on this exported report to diagnose issues remotely.
Best practices
- Export a System Report before contacting Apple Support so you can share it directly.
- Check the Storage and Memory sections here for precise numbers if About This Mac feels too high-level.
- Review connected USB and Bluetooth devices here if a peripheral isn't being recognized elsewhere.
Common problems and fixes
- A connected accessory doesn't show up anywhere in System Report.
- Try a different port or cable, and check whether the device needs its own driver installed before macOS will detect it.
- The report looks overwhelming with too much information.
- Use the sidebar to jump directly to the relevant category (like Memory or Displays) instead of scrolling through the entire report.
Tips and tricks
- Use File → Export in System Information to save a shareable text report for troubleshooting with support or a technician.
Frequently asked questions
Is System Report the same as About This Mac?
No, About This Mac gives a quick summary, while System Report (accessible from within it) provides the full detailed technical inventory of hardware and software.
Can I use System Report to check my Mac's serial number?
Yes, the Hardware Overview section at the top of System Report lists the serial number along with the model identifier and hardware UUID.
Related settings
- About This MacAbout This Mac (accessible from the Apple menu) shows your Mac's model, chip or processor, memory, macOS version, and serial number at a glance, plus a detailed system report and storage breakdown for deeper troubleshooting.
- Serial Number & CoverageThis is where you locate your Mac's serial number and check whether it's still covered by Apple's limited warranty or an AppleCare+ plan. You'll need the serial number for support calls, insurance claims, or verifying coverage before a repair.
- Storage ManagementStorage settings show a visual breakdown of exactly what's using space on your Mac's disk, plus built-in recommendations — like storing files in iCloud or automatically emptying the Trash — to free up space without manually hunting for large files yourself.
More System Info guides for macOS
- Date & TimeDate & Time settings keep your Mac's clock accurate by syncing automatically with a network time server, or let you set the date, time, and time zone manually when automatic detection isn't appropriate.
- Startup DiskStartup Disk lets you select which internal or external bootable volume your Mac uses when it powers on, useful if you have multiple macOS installations, a bootable backup, or a Windows partition via Boot Camp on an Intel Mac. Apple silicon Macs manage most of this through Startup Security Utility instead.
- Sharing & Computer NameView and change the name your Mac uses on local networks and AirDrop, and manage which sharing services like File Sharing or Screen Sharing are enabled.
- Profiles (Device Management)See configuration profiles installed on your Mac by an employer, school, or manually, which can enforce settings like Wi-Fi configurations, restrictions, or MDM enrollment.
- macOS Version & Build NumberClicking the macOS version number in About This Mac reveals the exact build number, useful when a support agent, developer, or compatibility check needs more precision than the marketing version name.
- Legal & RegulatoryThe Legal & Regulatory page contains the macOS software license agreement, open-source acknowledgments, and regulatory certification marks required for different countries and regions.