Troubleshooting kernel panics (Mac)
If a fatal error forces your Mac to restart unexpectedly while using Ableton Live, follow this guide to identify and resolve the issue. If only the Live application has crashed, instead please follow the steps in the guide Troubleshooting a Crash.
Please note: Kernel panics are typically caused by hardware problems, incompatible drivers, or faulty third-party software, rather than by Ableton Live. To troubleshoot, follow the steps in the Apple guide If your Mac restarts and a message appears.
Update your system
Kernel panic reports
Hardware issues
Additional steps
Update your system
To make sure you have the latest fixes and improvements, keep your system software up to date. Restart your computer after updating.
- Update to the latest version of Live from your Ableton account.
- Install the latest macOS updates by going to System Settings → General → Software Update.
- Update all third-party devices, software, scripts, and drivers.
Audio and MIDI drivers
Outdated or incompatible audio and MIDI drivers are a common cause of kernel panics.
- Visit your audio interface manufacturer's website and download the latest driver for your macOS version. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to uninstall the old driver before installing the new one, if needed.
- Update drivers for any MIDI controllers or other USB devices connected to your Mac.
To test if your audio interface is causing the issue:
- Disconnect all audio and MIDI hardware.
- Launch Live and set the audio device to Built-In Output in Live's Settings → Audio.
- Test an affected Set and workflow in Live. If this helps, the issue is likely related to your audio interface or its driver.
Note: Some audio interfaces require specific USB ports or direct connections. Avoid connecting audio interfaces through USB hubs when possible.
Third-party plug-ins and software
VST and Audio Unit plug-ins can trigger kernel panics if they're incompatible with your system.
- Check that all plug-ins are compatible with your macOS version and processor.
- Update all plug-ins to the latest versions.
- Follow the steps here to rule out plug-ins as the cause: Plug-ins Tips and Troubleshooting.
- Remove or replace any out of date or problematic plug-ins.
Other software running in the background may also cause conflicts:
- Quit all unnecessary applications before launching Live.
- Check for extensions installed by third-party software (antivirus, system utilities, or hardware drivers) that may cause a conflict.
Kernel panic reports
A kernel panic generates a crash report that begins with "panic(cpu..." This is different from a standard application crash. To view this report:
- Go to Applications → Utilities and open Console
- In the sidebar, navigate to Reports → Panic Reports.
- Select the most recent panic report to view its contents.
Look for references to specific drivers, kernel extensions (.kext files), or hardware components in the panic report. Common culprits include audio interfaces, MIDI controllers, USB hubs, and third-party kernel extensions.
Note: Kernel panic reports may not be simple to interpret. For help analyzing a panic report, please contact Apple Support, or refer to this external guide: Save and Read the Panic Log.
Hardware issues
Faulty hardware can cause kernel panics.
- Check all cable connections between your computer and peripherals.
- Test with different USB ports. If using a USB hub, try connecting devices directly to your Mac instead.
- Disconnect all non-essential peripherals (external drives, controllers, displays) and test Live with only your audio interface connected.
- If possible, test your audio interface on another computer to rule out a hardware defect.
Additional steps
If kernel panics persist after following the steps above:
- Create a new user account on your Mac and test Live there. This helps determine if the issue is related to your user account.
- Visit the Apple guide If your Mac restarted because of a problem.
If you continue experiencing kernel panics after following this guide, contact Ableton Support with your kernel panic reports and details about your system configuration, connected hardware, and the steps you've already taken.