Chronic WindowServer crashes on 2020 MacBook Pro

Question

Chronic WindowServer crashes on 2020 MacBook Pro

I've been experiencing a loud fan, continuous WindowServer crashes, and computer restarting with my MacBook Pro. This happens most often when I leave my computer open on an application like Safari. I will return to my computer in 5-10 minutes to find it had restarted and logged me out. The laptop also occasionally has momentary display issues, like a flash of black on the screen, or white/colorful lines.

I do not use any additional/external monitors. The only thing I plug into my computer regularly is the original charger. This happens regardless of what app I am using. I use Safari and Microsoft Edge most often, and occasionally use Logic Pro X and Final Cut Pro.

Specs: 13" 2020 MacBook Pro with 2.3 GHz Quad-Core Intel Core i7 processor, Intel Iris Plus Graphics 1536 MB, 32 GB memory, and Tahoe 26.1.

MacBook Pro 13″, macOS 26.1

Posted on Dec 8, 2025 12:15 PM

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Answer 1

Dec 8, 2025 12:51 PM in response to spacemanpeanut

Consider downloading and running this little "discovery" utility, Etrecheck. It changes NOTHING. Etrecheck was developed by a senior contributor here, and uses mostly system calls and simple tests to collect often-needed information.

it contains little tests for speeds of devices, CPU utilization, memory usage, energy usage and a digest of recent problems, in one easy to use package. it does not even need to be Installed. Because less can be learned when your Mac is running great, best time to run is when your problems are actually occurring, if possible.

if you follow the directions faithfully, its report (pre-laundered of all personally-identifiable information) can be "Shared" to the System ClipBoard, then Pasted into an ‘Additional Text’ window in a reply on the forums.

Use Etrecheck Pro for free:

http://Etrecheck.com

The amount of data you get can be daunting. If you POST your report, some Readers here are willing to look over those reports, and can provide valuable insights.

Then start a reply on the forums, click the 'additional text' icon in the footer, and PASTE

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