Mac kernel panic: what it is and how to read the report
What a kernel panic is, where macOS saves the panic report, how to find the cause line in it, and what to try next.
What is a kernel panic on a Mac?
A crash of the core of macOS, after which the Mac restarts to protect your data. Causes include faulty drivers, hardware problems and occasionally a macOS bug.
Where is the kernel panic log?
ls /Library/Logs/DiagnosticReports | grep -i panicConsole also lists them under Crash Reports. The panic string near the top names the component.
What should I try?
Update macOS, unplug accessories and docks, remove kernel extensions you do not need, and note whether panics follow sleep or startup: kernel panic after sleep.
Common questions
Where are kernel panic logs on a Mac?
/Library/Logs/DiagnosticReports, also visible in Console under Crash Reports.
Is a kernel panic bad?
One is not alarming. Repeated panics point to hardware, a driver or an accessory.