
See what makes each Mac notebook and desktop different. And find the one that’s perfect for your life, your work and your budget.
When you first set up Messages on your Mac, you're asked to sign in to your iMessage account with your Apple ID. Messages then automatically attempts to sign in every time you open it. Signing in to FaceTime is similar. If either app doesn't sign in successfully, try these solutions.
- When you first set up Messages on your Mac, you're asked to sign in to your iMessage account with your Apple ID. Messages then automatically attempts to sign in every time you open it. Signing in to FaceTime is similar. If either app doesn't sign in successfully, try these solutions.
- In the FaceTime app on your Mac, do any of the following during a video call. Keep the video call window on top of your other apps: Choose Video Always on Top.The call window floats on top of the other app windows, so it’s always visible, no matter which app you’re using.
- See what makes each Mac notebook and desktop different. And find the one that’s perfect for your life, your work, and your budget.
Check your Internet connection
Apple Id Facetime Mac
Make sure that your Mac is connected to the Internet. You should be able to load web pages or receive email, for example.
Check for a service outage
Check the Apple System Status page for a temporary outage affecting iMessage or FaceTime.
Check your Date & Time settings
- Choose Apple menu () > System Preferences, then click Date & Time. Make sure that the date, time, and time zone are correct.
- If the ”Set date and time automatically” checkbox is selected, deselect it and select it again. (If the checkbox is dimmed, click and enter your administrator password.)
Make sure that your software is up to date
Learn how to update your Mac software. Software updates can improve the stability, compatibility, and security of your Mac, and might also resolve the issue. Mac os create usb installer.
Check your Apple ID
To make sure that your Apple ID and password are correct, go to the Apple ID account page and sign in with the same Apple ID that you're using with Messages and FaceTime. If that works, open the app and take these steps:
- Messages: Choose Messages > Preferences, then click Accounts. Select your iMessage account, then click Sign Out. Now sign in again with the same Apple ID you used on the Apple ID account page.
- FaceTime: Choose FaceTime > Preferences. In the Settings tab, click Sign Out. Then sign in again with the same Apple ID you used on the Apple ID account page.
Reset NVRAM
In case the issue is related to any of the settings stored in NVRAM, reset NVRAM on your Mac.

Check for third-party software
If you installed firewall, security, VPN, or other third-party networking software, make sure that the software isn't blocking any of the network ports used by iMessage and FaceTime. If necessary, disable the software and then try using your iMessage account or FaceTime again.
Apple Mac Facetime Not Working
Learn more
Learn what to do if you have other FaceTime issues.
Apple Facetime Mac
FaceTime is not available in all countries or regions.
