How to Change Mac Password

* This article is from our Tip of the Day newsletter. . *

Let’s face it, passwords get stolen online all the time. If your Mac login is not unique, or it’s easy to guess, you are more vulnerable to remote hackers. Or maybe your hackers are in-house (your kids). Or perhaps your employer requires you to change your password from time to time. Whatever the reason, we’ll show you how to change a password on your Mac.

Related: How to Change AirDrop Name on iPhone, iPad, & Mac in Seconds

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Why You’ll Love This Tip

  • Maintain good password protection habits and safeguard your privacy.
  • Don’t make it easy for hackers to access your computer.

How to Change Password on Mac

Because Apple is in full control of both their hardware and software, Macs are generally more secure than Windows computers. But don’t let this lull you into a false sense of security. Although Apple goes to great lengths to protect all its devices, Macs can still be vulnerable to malware and hackers. Periodically changing your Mac Login password greatly reduces this risk. For more handy tips on managing your Apple devices, sign up for our free Tip of the Day Newsletter. Now, here's how to change a Mac password:

  1. Click the Apple icon.

  2. Click System Preferences.

  3. Click Users & Groups.

    Change Mac Password Step 3 - Users & Groups
  4. Click the lock icon in the lower-left corner of your screen to make changes.

    Change Mac Password Step 4 - Click on Lock
  5. Enter your administrator name and password and click Unlock.

    Change Mac Password Step 5 - Enter password and unlock
  6. Now select which user profile password you would like to change on the left side of your screen.

    Change Mac Password Step 6 - Choose User profile
  7. Click Change Password.

    Change Mac Password Step 7- Change Password
  8. In the Old Password field, enter the current password.

    Change Mac Password Step 8- Enter old Password
  9. Type your new password in the New Password field, and then enter it again to verify.

    Change Profile Picture Step 9 - Enter new password and Verify
  10. It is also recommended that you include a password hint. Think of a short text hint to spark your memory, but make sure your hint is not too obvious.

    Change Mac Password Step 10- Hint
  11. You may also have the option to check the box labeled Allow user to reset password using Apple ID. This way, if you enter the wrong password three times in a row, you can still access your computer and reset your password by logging in with your Apple ID. If you don't see this, don't worry: your password will still have been changed as usual.

    Change Mac Password Step 11 -  Reset password with Apple ID
  12. Click the lock to save your changes.

    Change Mac Password Step 12-  Lock

You’re all set! Now whenever you log in, you can just enter your new password.

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Author Details

Jivan Hall's picture

Author Details

Jivan Hall

Jivan has always been a big fan of Apple products since the original iPod hit the scene, and gets excited about the fast pace of technology. Jivan has a background in both business and tech, and has a degree in business administration. He loves researching new tips and ideas and sharing them with others. Jivan resides out of San Diego in sunny southern California, and tries to spend as much time as humanly possible outdoors with his two young sons playing sports, chasing waves, and on the seemingly never-ending quest for the best fish taco.