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How to Encrypt: Your Macintosh OS X User Directory Using FileVault

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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.

Before You Begin:

  1. Check with Your Local IT Support to ensure you are following your Department or Office's internal procedures and policies for data encryption. If you do not have local IT support, contact at 688-HELP (4357), by email, or take advantage of their walk-in support at the BuckeyeBar.
  2. Proceed with Caution: If you forget your encryption key (your password), there is no way to recover your encrypted files.
  3. Log off your computer when it is not in use. This allows the operating system to stay in good working order and limits the possibility of unauthorized access to your files.

Instructions:

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

    The Apple menu on OS X with the System Preferences item highlighted.
  3. Select the Security icon.
    The OS X 10.4 Systems Preferences panel.
  4. Read 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.

  1. Select the Turn on FileVault button.

    The Password prompt to enable FileVault
  2. Enter your user account password.
  3. The encryption process begins. It may take some time and require you to restart your computer.
  4. Once the process completes and your logon screen opens, log on 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 your computer against those threats.

Because of the nature of encryption, you should 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 using UPS battery systems can limit this risk.
  • Contact your department's or college's IT staff to investigate your options.

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