FileVault is a feature of macOS that encrypts the data storage drive on your Mac. This feature renders the data on your Mac unreadable to anyone without the encryption key or password. This feature can protect your data if your Mac was lost, stolen, or an unauthorized attacker gained access to it some other way.

1. If you are currently logged into your mac, you will see this notification pop-up in the top right corner. If notifications are turned off or you are not currently logged in, you will not see this pop-up:
   
   
   
2. When you logout, you will be prompted to enter your password to enable FileVault
   
   
   
3. After the setup finished, the recovery key will be displayed. This key can be used to decrypt the data if you forget your account password.
   1. Keep a copy of this key somewhere secure, such as your 1Password account.
   2. Do not write it down and physically attach it to your Mac (e.g., on a sticky note).
   3. The computer will automatically store a copy of this recovery key in a MERIT system. If you ever lose the key or need help, contact the MERIT helpdesk for assistance.
      
      
      
4. Once complete, you can log back into your Mac and use it as normal