A handy option on the Mac (Book) allows you to quickly and easily switch between set users. In this tip you can read how it works.
Fast user switching on the Mac
Not everyone has their Mac all to themselves, as many set up multiple users. This way you can – just like on a normal PC – switch between your own settings, preferences and files. However, it is quite a hassle to switch users. For example, you must first log out, after which the other user must log in again on the login screen.
In macOS High Sierra (and older versions) there is a function that allows you to switch between users more quickly. This is done via the menu bar, which is much easier. The function is quite hidden in the operating system, but by following the steps below, you can activate it.
- Open the System Preferences by clicking on the corresponding app, or selecting the option from the menu bar (Apple icon> System Preferences);
- Choose ‘Users and groups’;
- Click on the padlock at the bottom left of the menu to enter your password. You must do this to be able to change settings;
- Then press ‘Login Options’ and enable the ‘Fast User Switching Menu’ feature.
If you have enabled fast user switching, you need to specify what should appear in the menu bar. You can choose from ‘Symbol’, ‘Account name’ and ‘Full name’. Choose the option that most clearly shows the different users for you. You can then switch between the different users on your Mac at any time. For this, a new button appears on the right side of the menu bar.
Set up multiple users
If you use a Mac with the whole family, but not everyone has an account yet, it is useful to set this up. You can read exactly how to do this in the tip below. Each account is password protected and has its own files. This will prevent others from accessing files that are only intended for you.
→ This is how you set up multiple users on the Mac
It is also possible to create a guest user on the Mac. This is useful when someone is visiting or when you borrow your computer for a while. Guest users cannot adjust your Mac’s settings, allowing you to decide what they can or cannot do on the computer.
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