Note: Mac OS X is based on BSD Unix, not on System V Unix, so it does not have init states. If you wish to leave single user mode, you must reboot.
- Start or restart your Mac.
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Hold down the Command (Open Apple)-S keys.
How to Boot Mac OS X in Single User Mode
Respond to “How to Boot Mac OS X in Single User Mode”
It is possible to continue directly to the GUI interface from Single User mode without a restart. Doing so is invoked by exiting the shell using any of the standard UNIX methods–issuing an ‘exit’ command, typing control-D, and so on (exception: don’t use the .rcboot shell script, as it has been deprecated). You will then be taken to the standard GIU login page.
This method of getting to the GUI portion of the OS is of limited value for everyday use, however, as OS X will subsequently operate under the restrictions of the “Safe Mode” environment What is Safe Mode? until the system is restarted.