Touch ID (Mac): Setup and Use
Touch ID is a feature for Macs that allows the user to be able to unlock the Mac with their fingerprint. Please note that the Mac must have a fingerprint scanner located on the device in order to use Touch ID.
Determining Touch ID Eligibility
For your Mac to be eligible for Touch ID, it must have a Touch ID scanner.
An example of the touch scanner Is shown below:
Setup
- Log into your Mac as normal with your username and password.
- In the Application Folder, click to open System Settings.
- In the System Preferences window, click Touch ID & Password and select Add fingerprint..
- You will now need to place your finger on Touch ID and follow the prompts. Lift and rest your finger on Touch ID repeatedly.
- As you lift and place your finger, the fingerprint on the screen will fill up with red lines.
You will need to roll your finger to capture the edges of your fingerprint, as directed on-screen. - Once the Touch ID is ready, you can select Done.
- You can now choose what can be opened with Touch ID. To unlock the computer with your fingerprint, make sure Unlocking your Mac is checked.
- There is also an option to add additional fingerprints. This way you can unlock the computer with either hand or multiple fingers on a single hand.
Using Touch ID
Please note that Apple requires a password to be entered after a restart or shutdown:
- When the screen shows the login option and the text, "Touch ID or Enter Password", you can then use Touch ID.
- Place your finger on the Touch ID pad.