Mac OS: Lock screen - how it works

Mac systems are known for their ease of use. This is evident in almost all aspects, including when you want to lock the screen. Our guide explains what options are available.

With a screen lock, no one can access the Mac without a password.

The screen lock is designed to make the desktop inaccessible without shutting down the computer. Ideal for a coffee break, for example - and thanks to key combination no effort.Mac OS: Lock screen by key combination or menuThe fastest and easiest way is via a key combination:

• Press "central" + "shift" + "eject" at the same time.

The screen is then locked and can only be unlocked again after entering a password. Do you want to specify after how many minutes the sleep mode should be automatically switched on, navigate in the system settings to "Security > General". Here you can set the minutes and if necessary also change the password with which the screen can be unlocked.

Lock screen via menu bar

Alternatively, you can also activate the lock via the menu:

1. Use the Spotlight search to open the keychain management.
2. Go there to "Keychain Management > Preferences".
3. Select "Show keychain status in menu bar".
4. From now on you will see the lock icon "Lock screen" in the menu bar.

The effect is exactly the same as with the key combination. So you have two options that lead to the same goal.

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