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Enabling FileVault on Macintosh OS X

FileVault is the built-in encryption tool to help users protect important data on Macintosh computers. Enabling FileVault is simple and protects the home directory of each user.

FileVault encrypts the contents of the user home directory on the fly though it is important that you log off your computer when not using it to allow the operating system to stay in good working order and to limit the possibility of unauthorized access to your files. Logging out also makes your protected content invisible to other users of a system and prevents others from accessing it without the proper password.

To enable FileVault simply follow these instructions:

1. Click on the Apple icon in the upper right hand corner. Select the System Preferences option and open it.

The Apple menu on OS X with the System Preferences item highlighted

2. Under System Preferences click on the Security icon.

The OS X 10.4 Systems Preferences panel

3. Read through the information and warnings before enabling FileVault.

The OS X Security panel

Note:
It is recommended that you speak with your IT staff about setting a master password as a safety net in case your account password is lost or forgotten.

4. Click on the Turn on FileVault button.

The Password prompt to enable FileVault

5. Enter the password for the user account you are using and the process will begin. Read the warning carefully and if you have any questions contact your IT staff or call 8Help.  Once you are ready to proceed click "Turn on FileVault". This will begin the encryption process and may take some time and require you to restart your computer.

6. Once the process completes you will be presented with the logon screen again, log on as normal and begin using your computer.

Important concerns:

  • FileVault only encrypts data stored in your user directory - files kept on the Macintosh desktop or on the Macintosh hard drive in places other than the user home directory will not be protected by FileVault's encryption mechanism.

  • FileVault is not a tool to protect against hackers or viruses - use other software like firewalls and virus scanners to protect yourself against those threats.

  • Because of the nature of encryption you should be careful to avoid force-quitting applications and minimize the number of improper shutdowns. These actions increase the risk of losing encrypted data or corrupting your home directory. Regular data  backups and the use of UPS battery systems can limit this risk. Contact your IT staff to investigate what options they can provide you.
  • computer graphic

    Quick Tip

    The easiest entry into public key encryption is with PGP (Pretty Good Privacy or Pretty Good Protection) software. Find PGP software on the Internet in a variety of formats from freeware and shareware to commercial products

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