How to change the password on Mac

Apple’s latest Macs offer some strict measures to discourage thieves from targeting them. Thanks to the Find My Activation Lock, even if someone steals your Apple computer, there’s a high chance they won’t actually be able to extract its data or use it at all. Though, if a bad actor gets their hands on your Mac’s password, they may be able to shut down some of these shields and access your personal data if they have physical access to your device. That’s why it’s important to keep your Mac’s password to yourself and change it if someone figures it out. Whether you’re on macOS Sonoma or an older OS version, changing your Mac’s password is quite simple, and we’ve detailed how to below.

How to change the password on Mac

1. Launch the System Settings app.
2. Head to the Touch ID & Password section.
3. Tap on the Change button.

   

4. You will be prompted to type your old password, new password, new password again, and finally an optional hint.
5. You can set the type of the new password by clicking on the Key icon next to the New Password field. This allows you to choose whether it’s numeric, alphanumeric, etc.

   

6. Once you’re done filling in the blanks, click on Change Password, and you’re all set!

   

Why and when you should change your Mac’s password

Changing your Mac’s password is important if someone sees you typing it in or if you temporarily share it with a family member for a certain reason. We advise you not to share your passwords with anyone whatsoever, though. It’s also a good idea to change it every few months, just in case someone with physical access to your Mac secretly has it and is using it to log in in your absence.

If you decide to set a hint, we advise you not to use a very obvious one. Go for an inside joke or personal knowledge that no one else is aware of. This way, the hint will have a clear connection to the real password for you personally and no one else. Other people should have no idea what it is insinuating.