Mac mini M2 ports and first-time setup

A compact case, every port on the back

The Mac mini groups all its connectivity on its rear panel: a status indicator light, power port, Ethernet port, HDMI port, one USB-A port, the power button, two Thunderbolt 4 ports, and a headphone jack. The Thunderbolt 4 ports are the ones to favor for an external display or high-performance peripherals — they're the fastest connection the machine offers.

The first startup

Pressing the power button is enough to start the Mac mini; Setup Assistant then takes over to walk through the whole initial configuration (Apple Account, Wi-Fi network, preferences).

Getting your bearings once on the desktop

The menu bar gives direct access to Spotlight (search) and Control Center. Finder centralizes files, folders, and apps, while the Dock, at the bottom of the screen, keeps your most-used apps within a click. All of the Mac's settings live in System Settings.

Where to find the full guide

Apple provides a more detailed guide, the Mac mini Essentials, available at support.apple.com/guide/mac-mini or downloadable via Apple Books depending on region — useful for digging into a specific point without starting from scratch.