How to Encrypt Files in a Mac with FileVault

Three’s a crowd in relationships, but Macs are designed for multiple users. Apple has also designed security that allows users to feel confident about secure information that is saved on a Mac. Users have the ability to encrypt files using a Mac option called FileVault. After a few steps file security can be assured, but encrypting files in Mac with FileVault has a moderate level of difficulty.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Log in as the Administrator or the master user of the computer. Initially, a master password will need to be set so that it may be used to monitor all passwords that are set up on the computer.

2. Select the "Apple" icon, "System Preferences" and "Security."

3. Choose the "Set Master Password" option.

4. Enter a password. It should be a combination of letters, numbers and symbols. Be sure to give hints that will make the password retrievable if forgotten. Log out as Administrator.

5. Reenter the computer as the user who desires to encrypt files.

6. Move all secure files to the Home folder. This is the folder with the user’s name on it and the house icon. The encryption option works with the Home folder.

7. Find the "Apple" icon in the top left corner and select it. Select System "Preferences" and then "Security."

8. Click "Turn On FileVault" and enter the password that has been created. If the "Use Secure Erase" box is checked, files that are deleted and sent to the trash will also be secure. This will prevent other users from going into deleted items and retrieving them.

9. Be prepared to wait. This process may take a while to complete.