How to Create Password-Protected Folders on macOS

macOS offers a variety of built-in tools for managing files and securing sensitive data. One common way to protect files or folders is by setting up password protection. While macOS doesn’t have a direct option to create password-protected folders via the Finder, you can easily create encrypted disk images (which essentially function as password-protected folders) using the built-in Disk Utility app.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a password-protected folder on macOS:

Step 1: Open Disk Utility

1. Open Disk Utility:
   • Click on the Finder icon in the Dock.
   • In the menu bar, click on Go > Utilities.
   • Find and open Disk Utility.

Step 2: Create a New Disk Image

1. In Disk Utility, go to File > New Image > Blank Image.
2. You will be prompted to fill in the following fields:
   • Save As: This is the name of the disk image file. Choose something descriptive, like “Protected Files”.
   • Name: This is the name of the folder that will appear once you mount the disk image.
   • Size: Choose a size for the disk image. Make sure it’s large enough to store the files you want to protect. For example, if you plan to store 1 GB of files, choose a size of 1 GB or slightly more.
   • Format: Select Mac OS Extended (Journaled).
   • Encryption: Choose 128-bit AES encryption (or 256-bit AES encryption for stronger security). This will ensure that the disk image is encrypted and requires a password to open.
   • Image Format: Choose sparse bundle disk image. This format allows the disk image to expand and shrink based on the size of the files inside it.
3. After filling in these details, click Save.

Step 3: Set a Password

1. After clicking Save, you will be prompted to enter a password for the disk image. This is the password that will protect your folder.
   • Make sure to choose a strong password that is hard to guess. Avoid using simple words or easily guessable information.
   • Uncheck the option to Remember password in my keychain, as this would defeat the purpose of password protection.
   • Click OK.
2. The Disk Utility will create a .dmg (disk image) file at the location you specified.

Step 4: Mount the Disk Image

1. Once the disk image is created, it will appear as a mounted volume in Finder. It will look like a regular folder, but when you double-click on it, you will be prompted to enter the password.
2. Enter the password you created earlier, and the disk image will mount as a virtual drive. You can now copy and paste files into this “folder.”

Step 5: Adding Files to Your Encrypted Folder

1. Drag and drop the files or folders you want to protect into the mounted disk image.
2. Once you’re done adding your files, eject the disk image by right-clicking it in Finder and selecting Eject.

Step 6: Accessing Your Password-Protected Folder

1. To access your encrypted folder in the future, simply double-click the .dmg file. You will be prompted to enter the password again.
2. Once you enter the correct password, the disk image will mount as a virtual drive, and you’ll be able to access your files.

Step 7: Ejecting the Disk Image

When you’re done using the files, you should eject the disk image to ensure that it’s locked and secure.

1. In Finder, right-click on the mounted disk image and select Eject.
2. The next time you want to access your files, you will need to enter the password again.

Additional Tips

• Backup your password: If you forget the password to your encrypted disk image, there’s no way to recover the data. Make sure to store your password securely (e.g., in a password manager).
• Use a large enough size for your disk image: It’s better to overestimate the space you’ll need rather than underestimate it. You can’t expand a disk image after it’s created, but you can create a new one with a larger size if needed.
• Consider using third-party encryption tools: While the method described above is effective for most users, some may prefer third-party encryption tools that offer additional features, such as better file management and stronger encryption options.

Creating a password-protected folder on macOS is easy and secure using Disk Utility. By creating an encrypted disk image, you can store sensitive files in a folder that’s protected by a password. This method allows you to keep your data safe without relying on third-party applications, and it works well for protecting personal information, financial records, or any other confidential files. Remember to always use a strong password and back up your data to prevent losing access to important files.