Having a safe and secure computer ensures that users’ data and sensitive information stay safe from all sorts of mishaps, including data breaches, malware, etc. Apple’s range of Macs is known for its robust security features. According to Hexnode, macOS features more built-in security features and ensures more user privacy compared to other operating systems like Windows, Linux, etc.
However, even Macs are not completely safe from certain security threats, out of which unauthorized access is the primary one. Hence, the majority of Mac users are keenly interested in ensuring that others are unable to access their devices by any means. However, not all users know how to ensure their device remains safe from unauthorized access. To ensure that macOS users remain safe from unauthorized access of any sort, this article will list down numerous methods following which individuals can enhance their Apple computer’s security and safety quotient. Let us get straight into it:
Set a Highly Secure Password
Like other major operating systems, macOS also facilitates users to protect their devices by setting up a password. Any individual who wishes to log in to the Mac must put in the set password to access the stored data and use the device to perform activities. Setting a strong password is one of the most effective ways to prevent others from accessing your account and personal information. Individuals who wish to allow other users to access and use their Mac can create a Guest account. However, users who wish to keep their Mac’s data safe and secure should set a strong and secure password that is not easily guessable.
There are certain tips Mac owners should follow to set a password that is not easy to crack. For instance, users should never set a default password, i.e., they should not use words like “password,” “admin,” or “1234” as their security code. Besides this, users should ensure that they use a combination of numerics, alphabets and symbols to create a strong password. Moreover, users should keep changing their passwords frequently to add another layer of security.
Encrypt Disks
Even though passwords provide a robust layer of security, they can be bypassed easily by professional hackers or individuals who have expertise in bypassing security layers. Hence, besides setting up a strong password, users should also password-protect or encrypt their Mac’s disks using top-tier encryption tools. Since macOS promises top-notch security, it features a native encryption tool termed FileVault that facilitates users to encrypt their Mac’s startup disk, which helps users in protecting their files. The FileVault disk encryption functionality of macOS adds another layer of security to the user’s device. To use the functionality, all users need to do is enable it by following the given steps:
Step 1 – Open the Apple Menu present on the top-left corner of the screen and click on the System Preferences option.
Step 2 – Navigate to the Security & Privacy section and open the FileVault tab.
Step 3 – Click on the icon resembling a lock on the window’s bottom left corner and enter the login credentials or use Touch ID (if available) to make changes to the settings.
Step 4 – Enable the functionality by clicking on the “Turn on FileVault” option.
Step 5 – Complete the process by selecting a suitable recovery option.
Install a Software or Hardware Firewall
A firewall solution ensures your Mac remains safe and secure from all security concerns and issues. There are primarily two types of firewalls that enhance Mac’s safety, namely, a hardware firewall and a software firewall. A hardware firewall refers to a physical device that enhances your device’s security by connecting to a network. On the other hand, a software firewall refers to software or apps that can be installed on the computer to protect it from any unauthorized incoming or outgoing data. To ensure additional security, macOS features a native Firewall that works exceptionally well and protects the device from security threats. To enable the native firewall, users must navigate to the Firewall tab on their Mac and turn it on. Users can also tune the firewall per their requirements by clicking on the “Advanced” option.
Use an Antivirus Application
There are instances when cybercriminals bypass Mac’s security layers by using different forms of malware. For instance, they use viruses as a way to access an individual’s data and steal confidential and sensitive information such as passwords, card details, etc. Hence, every macOS user should install antivirus software on their device to ensure that it remains safe and secure from all sorts of malware, including spyware, adware, viruses, etc. Some of the most popular antivirus apps include Norton, Kaspersky, AVG, Avast, McAfee, etc.
If you own a Mac and wish to keep it safe from all sorts of mishaps and security threats, it would be best to follow the aforementioned security tips and tricks.