macOS processes › Networking and wireless
What is sharingd on Mac?
sharingd powers sharing features between Apple devices, including AirDrop, Handoff, Universal Clipboard and Instant Hotspot.
What it does
It advertises your Mac to nearby devices, discovers them, and manages transfers and hand-offs between them. It uses Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to find devices, so it runs in the background whenever those features are on.
Why it gets busy
- AirDrop set to Everyone, which means more discovery activity in busy places.
- Large AirDrop transfers.
- Universal Clipboard copying big items between devices.
- Many nearby Apple devices.
Why is sharingd using so much CPU?
sharingd is busy with AirDrop, Handoff and Universal Clipboard. Setting AirDrop to Contacts Only and turning off features you don't use reduces its work.
Is it safe to quit?
macOS restarts it immediately. An AirDrop in progress fails and needs to be sent again.
How to calm it down
- Set AirDrop to Contacts Only in Control Center or Finder, so it isn't visible to everyone.
- If you don't use Handoff, turn it off in System Settings › General › AirDrop & Handoff.
- Let large AirDrop transfers finish before judging its CPU use.
In SystemWatch
SystemWatch's History shows when sharingd was busy, so you can tie it to an AirDrop transfer or a crowded place with many devices nearby.
