How to password-protect your Mac

Here are a few ways to password-protect your Mac, and keep it safe from prying eyes.

1.  Open System Preferences: Accounts: Login options

Change Automatic login to Disabled.

This will require a correct login after starting up the machine.

2.  Open System Preferences: Security: General

Check “Require password to wake this computer from sleep or screen saver”.

Check “Disable automatic login”.

3.  Open Utilities: Keychain Access: Preferences

Select “Show Status in Menu Bar”.

Now from the menu bar you can “Lock Screen” before you step away from your machine. This will require that a user enter the correct password to use the machine. This is much easier and faster than logging in and out.