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Locking an Active Mac OS X Workstation

UT Tyler Office of Information Security

The easiest way to lock down your Mac is by using a password protected screen saver:

  1. Select a Screen Saver

    * You will first need to select a screen saver to activate. Open System Preferences and click the "Desktop & Screen Saver" icon. Pick any screen saver.

  2. Enable Password Protection

    * You will now need to enable a password. Navigate back to System Preferences and select the "Security" icon. Ignore all the FileVault settings. Select the check box for "Require password to wake this computer from sleep or screen saver."

    Now anytime you drag your mouse cursor into the activated Hot Corner, you will activate the screen saver. If your machine is put to sleep, you will be prompted to enter your password.

 You can also require a password on system boot by going to Apple menu> System Preferences> Users and Groups> Login Options. Turn the "automatic login" setting to off.