Published 2022-09-07 by TechNet New England
Whether your business has standardized on Macs or you have a few in a mixed environment, knowing how to use macOS effectively makes a real difference in productivity. Here are practical tips for business users.
Productivity Tips
Spotlight Search Is Your Best Friend
Press Cmd + Space to open Spotlight. It finds files, launches apps, does calculations, converts units, and searches the web. Start typing and it usually finds what you need before you finish the word.
Master the Trackpad Gestures
- Three-finger swipe up: Mission Control (see all open windows)
- Three-finger swipe left/right: Switch between desktops
- Pinch with thumb and three fingers: Show Launchpad
- Three-finger tap on a word: Look up definition
Use Split View
Hold the green button on any window to tile it to half the screen, then select another window for the other half. This is the Mac equivalent of Windows Snap.
Quick Look Everything
Select any file in Finder and press Space to preview it instantly: PDFs, images, documents, videos, even some code files. No need to open the full application.
Security Tips
Enable FileVault
FileVault encrypts your entire startup disk. If your Mac is lost or stolen, the data is inaccessible without your password. Go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > FileVault to enable it.
Use the Built-in Firewall
macOS has a firewall, but it is off by default. Enable it in System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Firewall. This blocks unwanted incoming connections.
Keep macOS Updated
Apple releases security updates regularly. Enable automatic updates in System Preferences > Software Update. macOS security updates often patch critical vulnerabilities.
Be Careful with App Permissions
macOS asks for permission when apps request access to your camera, microphone, files, and other resources. Review these permissions periodically in System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy.
Mac in a Windows Environment
- Microsoft 365: Install the full Office suite for Mac from the Mac App Store or Microsoft's website
- File sharing: macOS connects to Windows file shares natively via SMB. Use Finder > Go > Connect to Server
- Remote Desktop: Microsoft Remote Desktop for Mac lets you connect to Windows servers and desktops
- VPN: Most business VPN clients have Mac versions
Need help integrating Macs into your business environment? Contact TechNet New England for Mac support and management.