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The easiest way to keep your macOS software up to date is by enabling automatic updates.
If there is a new macOS version available that youve not yet installed, this will be shown here.
ClickUpdate Nowto drop in the update straight away.
punch your user account, then click theChange… button.
Its also important to ensure that automatic login is disabled.
This stops anyone that gains access to your gadget (i.e.
if its stolen) from being able to log straight in.
FromUsers & Groups, double-check theAutomatically jump in asoption says Off.
Finally, see to it your Mac automatically locks as soon as it is inactive.
This prevents anyone being able to access it if you leave it unattended.
More advanced tweaks that affect the security of your entire Mac are limited to the administrator only.
To create new users, go toSystem controls>Users & Groups.
So its well worth disabling this feature when you dont need to use it.
My recommendation is to disable all sharing options until and unless you need them.
Check through all these controls and ensure youre happy with what each app has access to.
And if in doubt restrict the access.
This way, hackers wont be able to guess the randomly generated one-time password.
To set up 2FA on your iCloud account, clickSystem options>Apple ID>Password & Security.
Then clickTurn Onnext to Two-Factor Authentication.Youll be asked to input your phone number to receive the two-factor authentication codes.
But not only that, you might also remotely lock it and/or wipe your drive completely.
To set up Find My, you first need to enable it in location services.
Go toSystem prefs>Privacy & Security.
Then underPrivacy, click onLocation Servicesand findSystem Servicesin the list of apps.
If you click theDetails… button, youll see a list of built-in apps that can access your location.
confirm the toggle next toFind My Macis on to fire up the feature.
Then go toSystem tweaks>Apple IDand click oniCloud.
Scroll through the list of apps until you find Find My Mac and punch the arrow beside it.
Then verify bothFind My MacandFind My networkare turned to on.
OpenNetworkfrom System controls, tap on theFirewalltab, and switch it on.
If youre a more advanced user, you could click theOptions… button to choose more detailed controls.
Otherwise, just let the default options apply.
So, its increasingly important to keep your Mac protected from new and emerging Mac-based malware threats.
Most antivirus programs are built for Windows first and their Mac programs are an afterthought.
But if you want to shop around, check out our list of thebest Mac antiviruses on the market.
Using analternative internet tool that specializes in securityis a great way to stay safe online.
trying to find your physical location), and theyre all open source.
Safari has an excellent anti-tracker blocker, which you should enable if you use this surfing app.
FromPreferences, you’re able to also choosePrivacy Reportto see how many trackers Safari has blocked.
There are also web app extensions for popular browsers that are good at protecting you online.
These extensions block ads and stop websites from tracking your browsing activity across the internet.
Depending on your VPN needs and requirements, there are a lot of great options.
Using unique, complex passwords for all of your accounts is vital in this day and age.
A password manager is therefore the only real option.
It works by saving and securely storing your account login credentials, passwords, and payment card information.
All information is encrypted with AES 256-bit encryption, also known as military-grade encryption.
There are manygreat alternative password managers for Mac, but1PasswordandDashlaneare my top recommendations.
Simply go toSystem prefs>Privacy & Securityand scroll down until you find FileVault.
snag the Turn On button to switch it on.
Alternatively, you might create a recovery key.
But you must keep a record of the recovery key somewhere safe, not on your gear.
Apple makes backups easy with its Time Machine feature.
Id suggest clickingOptionsand enabling automatic backups, so you dont have to worry about remembering to backup manually.
Mac-based antivirusIntegoalso includes a backup feature that offers even better functionality than Time Machine.
But at the very least Id recommend using Apples Time Machine to verify your files are kept safe.
And be very wary of any apps asking you to reduce your security controls to get to install.
However, data from all these searches can be shared with Apple.
To increase your privacy, you’re able to limit where Spotlight is able to search.
Siri also uses your location to make suggestions, unless you disable this.
To do so, go toSystem options>Privacy & Security, chooseLocation Servicesand uncheckSiri & Dictation.
However, bear in mind that this doesnt improve your Macs security.
To set this up, go toSystem controls>Lock Screen.
Switch on the toggle next toShow message when locked, then press theSet… button.
Enter the message you wish to display and hitOK.
The most important way to secure your Mac is to install a Mac antivirus on it.
For more information, see our list of the10 best antiviruses for Macs in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do macOS software updates take?
The time it takes for your macOS software to install depends on the speed of your machine.
Updates can sometimes take a few hours for the installation to fully complete.
For newer Macs, an update can take around 30 minutes to complete.
Before you upgrade your Mac, its essential that youback up your datain case the installation fails.
What is the best antivirus for my Mac?
The top pick for Mac antivirus in 2025 isIntego.
Exclusively crafted for Macs, Intego consistently safeguards against Mac-oriented malware and viruses.
However, these security tools arent enough to fully protect you from hackers and malware.
So choosing an effective Mac antivirus is necessary.
How does a VPN protect Macs?
VPNs have multiple uses, including:
You must choose a VPN service provider that guarantees 100% privacy.
Some also fail to fully protect your IP address, meaning websites can still track your true location.
Can Apple track how I use my Mac?
Yes, unless you change your Macs default privacy prefs.
Apple can also do other things like tracking your location and iCloud usage.
You need tochange your privacy settingsso Apple no longer has this access.
