macOS processes › Apple account and messaging
What is apsd on Mac?
apsd is the Apple Push Notification service daemon. It keeps a connection to Apple's servers so apps and iCloud can deliver notifications and updates to your Mac without constantly checking.
What it does
Messages, FaceTime, Mail, Calendar, iCloud services and third-party apps use push notifications. apsd keeps one long-lived, encrypted connection open and hands each incoming push to the right app. It reconnects when your network changes or the Mac wakes.
Why it gets busy
- A network connection that keeps dropping, so it reconnects often.
- A firewall or VPN blocking push connections, which causes retries.
- Lots of incoming pushes from apps or iCloud sync.
Why is apsd using so much CPU?
apsd keeps your Mac connected to Apple's push servers. If it's busy, the connection is usually dropping or being blocked, so fix the network or allow it in your firewall.
Is it safe to quit?
macOS restarts it. Notifications may be delayed for a moment.
The genuine apsd is at /System/Library/PrivateFrameworks/ApplePushService.framework/apsd.
How to calm it down
- Allow apsd in firewall and VPN apps. Blocking it causes constant reconnects.
- Check that your network connection is stable.
- Restart your Mac if it stays busy on a stable connection.
In SystemWatch
The website edition of SystemWatch shows apsd's network connection, so you can confirm it's talking to Apple and see how often it reconnects.
