A Demonstration and Walkthrough of Multi-User Support on macOS

In this episode, Tyler walks through how multi-user accounts work on macOS—why you might use them, how to add a new user, ways to switch quickly (including Touch ID), and how to safely delete an account while preserving data for troubleshooting. He also covers guest access, account types (Administrator, Standard, and Sharing Only), and a few accessibility tips with VoiceOver.

Key Points

• Why multi-user: Separate files, settings, and Apple Account sync per person; great for shared Macs or isolating issues by testing in a fresh account.
• Account types:
  • Administrator can change system settings and install software.
  • Standard has its own files/settings but cannot administer the Mac.
  • Sharing Only can access shared services remotely but cannot log in at the Mac.
• Guest user: If FileVault is on, Guest can only use Safari; if off, Guest can use apps but all data is wiped on logout.
• Fast User Switching: Add the menu-bar item via Control Center settings (listed as “Menu Bar” in macOS Tahoe per the recording timeframe), then switch from the status menu.
• Touch ID switching: Register different fingers per account to jump between users instantly—even from the lock screen.
• Deleting an account: Three options—(1) save home folder as a disk image under Deleted Users, (2) don’t change the home folder, or (3) delete the home folder.
• Troubleshooting tip: You can preserve your home folder, delete the account, then recreate it with the same account name to merge and reset settings—handy if issues are account-specific.
• Shared folder caveat: The /Users/Shared folder defaults to read/write for creator and read-only for others; permissions can be finicky, and other sharing methods may be easier.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Create a New User
   • Open System Settings > Users & Groups, and click Add User…
   • Pick an Account Type (Administrator, Standard, or Sharing Only). Standard is the default.
   • Enter Full Name; Account Name (home folder name) will auto-fill. Set a Password and optional Hint, then click Create User.
2. First Login & Touch ID
   • Log out of your account, select the new user, and sign in.
   • In Setup Assistant, the user can enroll Touch ID with their finger.
3. Enable Fast User Switching (Menu Bar)
   • Go to System Settings > Control Center (labeled “Menu Bar” in future macOS versions relative to the time of recording).
   • Find Fast User Switching and set it to Show (e.g., show Account Name). Then use the status menus to switch users.
4. Switch Between Users Instantly
   • From the menu bar via Fast User Switching, or with Touch ID, a user can press the sensor with the finger registered to their account (works at the lock screen once accounts have been logged into).
5. Share Files Between Accounts (Optional)
   • Use /Users/Shared; creator has read/write, others read-only by default. Adjust permissions via Get Info if needed—but expect some Unix permission quirks.
6. Delete a User Safely
   • In Users & Groups, click the "Show detail" button for an account, click Delete User, and choose what to do with the Home folder.

Transcript

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