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system_profiler MacOS Command Guide

The MacOS system_profiler command provides detailed information about the hardware and software configurations of your Mac system. By running this command in the terminal, you can access an extensive report that includes details such as hardware components, network settings, software applications, and more. This command can be useful for troubleshooting issues, checking system compatibility, or simply gaining a better understanding of your Mac’s specifications. With system_profiler, you can retrieve information in a structured format, making it easier to analyze and share details about your system.

system_profiler Syntax:

Terminal window
system_profiler [dataType] [option]

Options:

OptionDescription
-xmlOutput in XML format
-listDataTypesList all available data types
-detailLevelSpecify detail level (basic, mini, full)
-jsonOutput in JSON format
-xmlOutput in XML format
-intervalSet the update interval in seconds for live data
-timeoutSpecify a timeout in seconds for live data

Parameters:

ParameterDescription
dataTypeSpecify the type of data to be displayed
optionSpecify additional options for data retrieval

system_profiler Command Samples:

Display Hardware Information

Terminal window
system_profiler SPHardwareDataType

Displays detailed information about the hardware components of the system.

List Software Information

Terminal window
system_profiler SPSoftwareDataType

Lists software-related information, including system software versions and installed applications.

Show Network Information

Terminal window
system_profiler SPNetworkDataType

Displays network-related information such as IP addresses, network interfaces, and connection details.

View Battery Information

Terminal window
system_profiler SPPowerDataType

Shows details about the system’s battery, including its health status, cycle count, and power usage.

Check Storage Information

Terminal window
system_profiler SPStorageDataType

Provides an overview of storage devices connected to the system, including internal and external drives.

List USB Information

Terminal window
system_profiler SPUSBDataType

Displays information about USB devices connected to the system, including vendor details and device capacities.

Show Memory Information

Terminal window
system_profiler SPMemoryDataType

Lists details about the system’s memory modules, including type, speed, and capacity.

How do I use system_profiler in MacOS?

To use the system_profiler command in MacOS, execute the following command:

Terminal window
system_profiler

What is the command to get hardware information using system_profiler in MacOS?

To retrieve hardware information using system_profiler in MacOS, use the following command:

Terminal window
system_profiler SPHardwareDataType

To view software-related details with system_profiler in MacOS, use the command:

Terminal window
system_profiler SPSoftwareDataType

How can I check the network configuration using system_profiler in MacOS?

To check the network configuration using system_profiler in MacOS, you can use the command:

Terminal window
system_profiler SPNetworkDataType

What is the command syntax to view battery information with system_profiler in MacOS?

To view battery information with system_profiler in MacOS, the syntax for the command is:

Terminal window
system_profiler SPPowerDataType

How do I get a list of all available data types with system_profiler in MacOS?

To get a list of all available data types with system_profiler in MacOS, use the command:

Terminal window
system_profiler -listDataTypes

Applications of the system_profiler command

  • Gathering detailed information about hardware and software components
  • Generating reports for troubleshooting and diagnostics
  • Listing details about connected peripherals and devices
  • Providing a comprehensive overview of the system configuration
  • Collecting data for system monitoring and analysis