Require name and password in the Mac login window

Set Login window shows to Name and password. This keeps the normal macOS login window from presenting a list of account names and makes a person enter both the account name and its password.

macOS 13 and later

  1. Choose Apple menu > System Settings.
  2. Click Lock Screen in the sidebar.
  3. At Login window shows, choose Name and password.
Lock Screen settings with Login window shows set to Name and password

macOS 10.11 through 12

  1. Choose Apple menu > System Preferences > Users & Groups.
  2. Unlock the preference pane, then select Login Options.
  3. At Display login window as, choose Name and password.
Legacy Users & Groups Login Options with Display login window as Name and password selected

Security and functional limits

  • This setting hides the account list; it does not add multi-factor authentication, compensate for a weak password, or protect an already unlocked Mac.
  • The FileVault preboot login shown before macOS starts can display FileVault-enabled users differently from the normal macOS login window.
  • Managed Macs that use network accounts or 802.1X login-window authentication can require additional configuration.

You can also turn off password hints so the login window reveals less information.

Primary sources

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Other security setting to check

PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING TIP AND DISCLAIMER!

Keep in mind: not every security and privacy setting is suitable for everyone. Enhancing the security can lead in losing functionality and/or comfort.
Before making changes, please backup your Mac! Do not make too many change at once. After changing your Mac, check if your normal usage of your Mac has changed in a way which fits to you. Are your really willing to loose some functionality and/or comfort?
Most important is, that you learn and understand what are the advantages and disadvantages of the security settings and that you are aware about the capabilities and risks of your Mac configuration.

To skip this result message from your next security scan, you can deactivate this check. FAQ: How to deactivate a check.

CHECK RESULTS BY SIMPLEUMCHECK DO NOT COVER ALL ASPECTS OF POSSIBLE SECURITY CHECKS OR MAYBE INCORRECT OR INCOMPLETE. THE RESULTS ARE ONLY CLUES FOR RECOMMENDATIONS TO IMPROVE SECURITY AND PRIVACY ON THE MAC.

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