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In the macOS system startup procedure, the last step is the initiation of launchd. Launchd is a vital system process responsible for managing all other processes on a Mac. After the kernel has been loaded and is running, launchd takes over the responsibility of initializing system daemons and user processes, thereby setting the stage for the user environment.

The startup sequence begins with firmware, which is responsible for hardware checks and initializing the system. Once that process is complete, the system transitions to the bootloader, which loads the kernel into memory. At this point, the kernel takes control and starts the core functions of the operating system, but it is launchd that ultimately signs off on the complete boot process by launching all the user-level services and applications that make the system operational.

Understanding this sequence helps clarify the critical role that launchd plays in managing system resources and user applications after the kernel has established the basic operating system environment. This knowledge is essential for troubleshooting and optimizing the macOS startup process.