Q: How do I change a user password and require it to wake from sleep or the screen saver on Mac OS X?

On this page:

This answer pertains to Mac OS X. See also Windows XP and Windows 7.

Answer

To protect your computer from unauthorized access, have a user password enabled. You must be an administrator on the computer to access user accounts.

It is advisable to have a password set up with your username to log into your computer from sleep or from the shut down state. Apple computers require a password be entered for each separate user account. Do not keep the password written down anywhere near the workstation and do not make it too easy to guess. For tips on how to create a strong password see Strong Passwords.

Enabling a Password to Wake from Sleep

Tip: Unless you request it, waking from sleep or disengaging the screen saver will NOT require a password. You must select the option in System Preferences, as below:

1. In System Preferences select Security (Security and Privacy in Lion):
   
   
   
2. Click the box next to Require password after sleep or screen saver begins:
   

Changing a User's Password

1. Open System Preferences. Under the category System, select Accounts (Users and Groups in Lion).
   
   
   
2. Select the account on the left side of the window if needed. Select Change Password next to the user's profile image.
   
   
   
3. Enter the old and new passwords. Enter a password hint if needed. Select Change Password.