Do you use Macs in your office? If your Mac is used by more than one user, or if you would just like a bit of added security, it can be a good idea to set up passwords for several functions.

Here are three ways you can make it harder for people to physically access your Mac.

1. Set a password to log in
This is an easy one to set up:

1. Click on the Apple icon at the top-left of your screen.
2. Select System Preferences from the drop-down menu.
3. Click on Security followed by General in the window that opens.
4. Tick the box that says Disable automatic login.
5. Set the desired time period from the drop-down box.

You will now need to go back to the System Preferences main screen (press the black back arrow below the red button at the top of the window) and click on Accounts. Look for the account you log in with, click on it and press Change Password…

You may find that you are not able to make changes to both of these windows because they are locked. If this is the case, look for the lock icon in the bottom-left of the window, and press it if it is locked. You should then be able to make changes. When you’re done with the changes, it would be a good idea to click on this lock again to ensure no more changes can be made without entering your password.

2. Set a password to “wake up” the computer
You can set up your Mac so that you need to enter your user password to be able to return to the desktop from the screen saver, or wake the computer up.

1. Click on the Apple icon at the top-left of your screen.
2. Select System Preferences from the drop-down menu.
3. Click on Security followed by General in the window that opens.
4. Tick the box that says Require password after sleep or screen saver begins.
5. Set the desired time lapse period from the drop-down box.

You can also tick the box that says Log out after XX minutes of inactivity. Set your desired time limit, and after that time the computer will log you out. When you next try to access it, you will be taken to the main login screen.

3. Turn off your computer at the end of the day
This may sound a little silly, but it is always a good idea to turn your computer off when you go home. This alone can deter criminals, especially if you have an older Mac that takes a while to boot up. If your company works with an IT partner who looks after updates and virus scans, talk to them about whether you should turn your computer off or leave it on when you leave the office.

By simply having a password protected system, you can significantly minimize the chance of stolen data, or at least reduce the possibility of prying eyes seeing important files. If you are looking for more ways to ensure the security of your systems, please contact us today to see how we can help.