How to Password Protect a Folder on Mac
Protecting sensitive files on your Mac is easier than you might think. With Disk Utility, you can create a password-protected folder by using an encrypted disk image.
Follow the steps below to secure your files quickly and effectively.
Why Use Disk Utility?
Disk Utility is a built-in macOS app for managing storage devices and volumes. It lets you create encrypted disk images, which work like password-protected folders. Since it’s already on your Mac, there’s no need for extra downloads or tools.
With support for 128-bit and 256-bit AES encryption, Disk Utility offers a secure, straightforward way to protect sensitive files. It’s reliable, easy to use, and fully integrated with macOS.
Password Protect Folder with Disk Utility
Here’s how to get started:
1. Open Disk Utility
Go to Applications > Utilities > Disk Utility, or search for it using Spotlight (Command + Space).
2. Create a New Disk Image
Once Disk Utility is open, click File in the menu bar and select New Image > Blank Image.
3. Configure Disk Image Settings
Set the following options in the dialog box:
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Save As | Choose a name for the disk image (e.g., “ProtectedFolder”). |
| Where | Select where to save the disk image (e.g., Desktop). |
| Name | Enter a recognizable name for the disk image. |
| Size | Pick a size large enough to store your files (e.g., 100 MB or 1 GB). |
| Format | Choose Mac OS Extended (Journaled). |
| Encryption | Select 128-bit AES encryption (strong) or 256-bit AES encryption (stronger but slower). |
| Partitions | Leave as Single partition – GUID Partition Map. |
| Image Format | Select read/write disk image. |
4. Set a Password
When prompted, enter a strong password. Make it unique and difficult to guess. For better security, uncheck Remember password in my keychain.
5. Save and Mount the Disk Image
After saving the disk image, double-click the image file to mount it. Enter the password you created earlier to unlock it.
6. Add Files to Your Protected Disk
Drag and drop files into the mounted disk image.
Once done, eject the disk image to lock it.
Tips for Managing Your Encrypted Folder
Here are a couple of useful tips to help you effectively manage your encrypted folder and avoid common issues:
Backup Your Password
Always store your password in a secure location, like a trusted password manager or a handwritten note in a safe place. Without the password, there’s no way to recover the data inside the encrypted folder, and it will be permanently inaccessible.
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Plan for Future Storage Needs
When creating the disk image, consider how much data you’ll add over time. Disk images cannot be resized after they’re created, so it’s better to allocate slightly more space than you think you’ll need.
This avoids having to create a new disk image and transfer files later.
How to Delete a Password-Protected Folder
If you no longer need the password-protected folder, deleting it is simple. Follow these steps to securely remove the encrypted disk image and free up space:
1. Eject the Disk Image
If the disk image is currently mounted, right-click it in Finder and select Eject.
2. Locate the Disk Image File
Navigate to the location where you saved the disk image (e.g., Desktop or Documents).
3. Move the Disk Image to Trash
Right-click the disk image file and select Move to Trash.
4. Securely Empty the Trash
Open the Trash folder and click Empty.
For added security, use macOS’s secure delete feature:
Open Terminal (Command + Space, then type Terminal).
Type in the following and hit Enter.
rm -P /path/to/diskimage.dmg
Once deleted, the disk image and its contents will be permanently removed from your Mac.
Conclusion
Now you know how to use Disk Utility to password protect a folder on your Mac. This simple method ensures your sensitive files stay secure and accessible only to you.
Give it a try and keep your data safe!