FileVault is the built-in full-disk encryption feature in macOS. It protects all data on your Mac by encrypting it with XTS-AES-128 encryption.

Enable FileVault

Go to System Settings > Privacy & Security > FileVault and click Turn On.

Save the Recovery Key

You can store the key with Apple or manage it locally. Store it securely — losing it means losing access to all your data.

Check Encryption Progress

Encryption happens in the background. Check progress from the same settings panel or via Terminal:

fdesetup status