Encryption: College-Owned Computer (macOS)

This article reviews how to encrypt your College-owned Mac.

Before You Start, you may need access to the following:

  • a stable internet connection
  • an eligible college-provided Mac

Want to encrypt an email? See Encryption: Emails in Microsoft 365.

FileVault encryption: what and why

Not all devices are eligible to be encrypted. To determine if yours is, check if Disk Encryption is present in Step 2: Encrypt.

  • What: FileVault is Apple’s built-in encryption program for Macs.
  • Why: Encryption is critical to the security of your device, and ensures your data is protected in the event its lost or stolen.

Encrypt your Mac

Note: The screenshots used below were taken on a device running macOS Big Sur. Prior macOS versions may look different.

Step 1: back up

Step 2: encrypt

Step 3: verify encryption

Questions?

If you have any additional questions or problems, don't hesitate to reach out to the Help Desk!

Phone: 610-526-7440 | Library and Help Desk hours
Email: help@brynmawr.eduService catalog
Location: Canaday Library 1st floor