InsomniaX for Mac

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InsomniaX Analysis

AI Assisted Content · June 11, 2026

Not written by CNET Staff.

InsomniaX is a utility designed to prevent MacBooks from entering sleep mode when the lid is closed. This feature is particularly useful for users who want to continue playing music or performing tasks without interruption. The application is simple to use, residing in the Menu bar for quick access. Users can easily toggle the sleep settings and also manually put the display or system to sleep as needed. Additionally, it allows customization options, including automatic activation when connected to power.

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However, caution is advised when using InsomniaX, as keeping the MacBook closed for extended periods may cause overheating. The application requires a system password for activation, which adds a layer of security. Overall, InsomniaX provides users with more control over their Mac's sleep settings, making it a practical tool for specific use cases that require a continuous operation.

InsomniaX for Mac

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Full Specifications

GENERAL

Release: October 12, 2014

Latest update: June 11, 2026

Version: 2.1.8

OPERATING SYSTEMS

Platform: Mac

Operating System

OS X 10.10
OS X 10.9
OS X 10.8
Mac OS X 10.7
Mac OS X

Additional Requirements: None

POPULARITY

Total Downloads: 102,794

Downloads Last Week: 0

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Last Updated

User Reviews

3.4/5

14 User Votes

**IMPORTANT** Known Security Flaws **DO NOT USE**
hihonoMarch 3, 2018
Pros
None that offset insecurity
Cons
INSECURE INSECURE INSECURE
Summary
**** Per publisher's report, this software is insecure and should no longer be used. **** See http://semaja2.net/2017/06/insomniax-security-notice/
It used to meet my needs. The new one doesn't.
heffequeJuly 30, 2011
Pros
It used to meet my needs. Still using the 1.3.5... old version. For some reason Cnet still calls the new version 1.3.5 when its supposed to say 2.0.
Cons
It used to meet my needs, now with the new version, it doesn't: "When lid is closed screen will now sleep as well" This is the deal breaker. I sometimes I close the lid and I want it to continue working.
Summary
Why he removed this feature, beats me. But I'm not updating to 2.x 'till he adds this feature again.
Can't understand the fuss!
freewheeler65May 19, 2011
Pros
Great product, worked first time no issues, should be an integral feature of the os as a recent convert to Mac's because of the awesome air, truly the best notebook ever made, I am used to these features being available in power. Indispensable!!
Cons
Only one can't seem to get start on power to work so have to start up machine with lid open. But that's probably just me!!
Summary
Horrible, horrible, horrible.
mpkennedApril 23, 2011
Pros
If it actually worked, at all, I'm sure it would be fantastic!
Cons
Does not work even in the slightest. Instead, it panicks your system, freezes it completely, and tells you that you must reboot. And because it is presently set to "Load on Start", I am, as I'm sure you can imagine, stuck in an endless loop presently
Summary
HORRIBLE, HORRIBLE PROGRAM! DO NOT BUY IT!!
doesn't work on mbp i7 2001
talibunnyMarch 27, 2011
Pros
simply N-O-N-E
Cons
it used to work on my old machines, also running 10.6.7. but on my two new mbp's core i7 from 2011 insomniaX doesn't work anymore. computers go to sleep as soon as I close the lids.
Summary
same with insomniaT (don't even try to install it on the new models - it's a pain in the . . . to remove it and it f... up your system preferences BADLY that you won't be even able to use them anymore!!) and SleepLess. None of them work anymore. I wonder if any of these three are still supported by their developers??
Works well
Sm3llyGFebruary 1, 2011
Pros
I'm running OSX 10.6.6 on a macbook pro, and no issues here! Great app that installs quickly, didn't need a reboot, and works as it says. Its great to have something that stops the mac sleeping when the lids closed.
Cons
None yet. It was mentioned in the readme that there is some chance of overheating with it closed. I haven't had this problem yet, and I cant see why it would as it is designed to have the lid closed when running an external monitor off it.
Summary
Good app, works as stated. Quick to access too.
InsomniaX 1.3.5 did NOT work on my MacBook.
AnonymousUserXJanuary 31, 2011
Pros
Not Applicable (N/A).
Cons
InsomniaX 1.3.5 did NOT work on my MacBook.
Summary
Sorry, but I do NOT recommend InsomniaX 1.3.5 for Mac. The program required a reboot to install, after which the program was no where to be found on my MacBook after searching extensively for anything resembling "Insomnia" in the application file name. I now wonder if it's still somehow installed on my MacBook, without any clear means of Uninstalling it, and also wondering as to what kind of negative effects it may have if so. My MacBook would still appear to go to sleep when I close the lid too...so I'm not seeing any benefit here of any kind, only confusion and frustration.
1.3.5 Works great on '08 MacBook 2.4 Ghz w/ 10.6.5
gsavage777January 1, 2011
Pros
It works good.
Cons
Gave me an error... something about not being able to use a library. It still works fine despite that.
Summary
I use it a lot. Very nice design. Funny/Fuhglie icon.
I can't get it to work
Edward CrimOctober 6, 2010
Pros
I like the promise
Cons
I hate the performance
Summary
It's just like the US Congress - they promise, but don't deliver
Good program, Constant Load Error
blaskojMarch 18, 2010
Pros
Works just like explained, great for hooking up to your HDTV and enjoying it for monitor use.
Cons
Everytime I install it will work once but as soon as I start the computer up another time, it fails to load and I have to Install it again.
Summary
Good Program, Bad Bug

Developer’s Description

Prevent your laptop from sleeping on lid close.

It always has been a missing feature: disabling the sleep mode on a Apple Laptop. Who does not want to use it as a big juke-box or go warwalking. The best looking server ever, especially at about one inch height. This small utility is what you will want, this small utility acts as a wrapper to the Insomnia kernel extension.