To help protect university devices from unauthorized data access, UNLV Information Technology automatically encrypts IT-managed Mac devices using FileVault.
How Encryption Works
When your device is encrypting:
- You can continue to use your device as normal.
- Encryption may take several hours depending on the amount of data stored on the drive.
- If you restart or turn off your computer, the process will automatically pause and resume when possible.
- For devices with a battery (such as a laptop), you should connect your device to a power source. Your device will use more battery during initial encryption, but will return to normal after encryption is complete.
Please avoid forcing your device to shut down (such as pressing and holding the power button) during the initial encryption process.
Initial Encryption
After logging in to your computer, the first time your computer is being encrypted you will see a dialog box requesting you to enable encryption:
Select Enable Now to log in to begin the encryption process. You may select Cancel up to three times to continue logging in without beginning the encryption process, after which you must select Enable Now or you will not be able to log in.
Checking Encryption Status
To verify if FileVault is encrypting your computer:
- Open System Settings
- Select Privacy and Security
- Scroll to the FileVault section. You will not be able to TurnOff file Vault on an IT-Managed computer.
If you do not see FileVault encrypting your computer, please contact the IT Help Desk to verify that your computer is enrolled in IT-management.
Requesting An Exemption
If you need to request an exemption from Automatic Encryption, file a request via UNLV IT policies page or contact the IT Help Desk.
Need Additional Help?
For additional assistance, please visit the Computer, Device, and Printing Support knowledge base for additional articles. You can also contact the IT Help Desk.