How to switch users on Mac (Quick guide)

Sharing your Mac with others while keeping your data private is easy with multiple user accounts. This guide explores several methods for switching between users on macOS, from the simple Fast User Switching to using the lock screen and even the Terminal.

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Fast User Switching: The Quickest Method

Fast User Switching allows you to quickly switch between users without logging out. This is ideal for those who frequently switch between personal and work accounts. However, remember that all user sessions remain active, potentially consuming more system resources.

To enable Fast User Switching:

1. Open System Settings (Apple menu).
2. Go to Control Center.
3. Find Fast User Switching and choose a display name (Full Name, Account Name, or Icon).
4. Toggle Show in Control Center to enable switching from the Control Center.

Switching users:

1. Click the Fast User Switching icon in the menu bar.
2. Select the desired account.
3. Enter the password.

First-time logins will require macOS setup. To switch back, simply use the menu bar again.

Tip: For a cleaner menu bar, consider using Bartender to manage your icons.

Switching via Lock Screen

If your Mac goes to sleep, switching users is done through the lock screen.

1. Wake your Mac. The lock screen shows the currently logged-in user.
2. Select another user profile.
3. Enter the password.

To log out completely and free up resources, click the Apple menu and choose Log Out [Profile Name] (or press Shift Command Q). To allow another user access, lock the screen (Apple menu > Lock Screen or Control Command Q).

Tip: Use Dropzone for easy file sharing and other quick actions from the menu bar.

Touch ID for Secure Switching

For enhanced security, use Touch ID to switch users. Each user needs a registered fingerprint.

1. Log in to the account where you want to enable Touch ID.
2. Go to System Settings > Touch ID & Password.
3. Add your fingerprint and enable Use Touch ID for fast user switching.

Terminal Method (Advanced)

While you can't directly switch users, you can log into another account via the Terminal using the login [username] command. Remember to enter the correct password.

Maintaining Mac Performance

Multiple accounts can impact performance. Regularly use CleanMyMac to remove junk files and keep your Mac running smoothly.

Conclusion

Switching users on a Mac is simple, regardless of the method used. Optimize your system with tools like Bartender, Dropzone, and CleanMyMac for a smoother experience. Setapp offers a 7-day free trial to explore these apps.

FAQs

• How to create user accounts: System Settings > Users & Groups > Add User.
• How to log in as a different user: Select the user profile at the login screen and enter the password.
• Keyboard shortcut for login screen: Control Command Q

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