Wondering how to prepare your Mac for remote work. After reading this post, you’ll have a better understanding on preparing your Mac for remote work effectively.
Working remotely requires a designated workspace with minimal distractions to keep you focused. You also need the right gear and accessories so your workflow and workday can become more productive and streamlined. One of the best resources that’ll make your remote work easy is a Mac computer. The computer is geared towards efficiency and relied upon by millions of remote workers.
But even as MacBook computers or laptops will keep your workflow running while reducing costs, you need to learn how to use them. For instance, you’ll need to master the Mac clean up guide, the art of taking notes, how to screenshot on Mac, etc. Screenshotting is essential, especially if you work remotely but collaborate with other teams. This article explains more about how to prepare your Mac for remote work.
01. Find the Right Devices to Pair with Your Mac
Your Mac can only perform to its best potential if paired with the right devices. One of the best devices that make your remote working experience easier on Mac is to include Apple’s keyboards and mice.
Apple’s wired or wireless keyboards and mice are intended to make your life easier. When you utilize these accessories, your Mac becomes more powerful, enabling you to meet more deadlines quickly. You can also include a trackpad, headsets, or other audio devices. The idea is to prepare your Mac for remote work by having devices that won’t fail you at the critical moment.
02. Secure Your Mac with the Latest Software and Security Updates
A secure workspace is necessary if you want to keep family members away. An excellent way to secure your Mac is to set up a work account, separate from a personal account, complete with a unique password. If possible, disable the automatic login feature and keep only work-approved apps active on the account.
Preparing your Mac for efficient use also means keeping it up to date. Your Mac OS, Web browser, and the leading work apps such as Microsoft Office should all be up to date. These application updates keep your device safe as they often contain security improvements.
Remember that you face a more significant cyber threat when working from home than anywhere else. So, install endpoint security software on your Mac if you don’t already have it. This will protect you from cyber threats like malicious attacks or keep your files safe from ransomware.
03. Install Apps that Help You Focus
Whether working remotely or trying to get in the zone for that perfect idea, a focus app can help you get there. Luckily, Mac has all the apps you need to give your undivided attention to the task. They are the best productivity apps for Mac that let you set a goal and help you achieve it.
One of the apps is Cold Turkey, which allows you to set periods when you won’t be able to access distracting websites or social media. The app gives you no other choice but to use your computer for work-related stuff only. Other non-intrusive and productivity-focused apps on Mac include Dewo – for doing more deep work and Timely – for automated time tracking.
04. Create More Screen Space
Working remotely requires you to maximize all the resources at hand. Part of the preparations involves increasing your screen display to match what you’re used to in the office. The extra screen space is a real productivity boost that prevents you from crouching over your desk and struggling with a limited screen display.
One of the easy Mac preparation tips to give you more screen space is to do it manually on your device. Go to the System Preferences and click on the option to hide and show the menu bar automatically. You’ll get much more space on your screen when you don’t see the menu bar icons all the time.
You can also increase your screen space by using your iPad as a second display. This is an excellent Mac preparation tip if your work requires you to use the Apple pencil on the iPads but prefer a larger screen with more colors.
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05. Prepare Your iCloud for Files and Documents Storage.
Working remotely on Mac is now easier, thanks to the iCloud feature that provides more storage space. The best thing is that you have access to iCloud all the time and on all your Apple devices. That’s right; a proper iCloud storage will allow your desktop and documents folder to sync across all your devices.
Mac’s iCloud feature is intended to provide you with extra space to save all the files you’re working on in the cloud. The idea is to let you keep the files to access them on any of your Apple devices. This means you can also access everything you are working on in the office at home – as long as it’s located in iCloud.
You can plan for the 5GB free storage plan at first and later upgrade to the premium plans as follows:
- 50GB storage: $0.99 monthly
- 200GB storage: $2.99 a monthly
- 2TB storage: $9.99 a monthly
06. Utilize Siri’s Vast Potential
Siri’s vast potential when working remotely may not be well known to most new Mac users. However, it’s one of Mac’s key features that simplify your work-from-home experience. With Siri, you’ll be able to stay on top of daily appointments.
You can also rely on Siri to call your colleagues, set personal reminders, and get answers to your questions. Siri is also vital if you’re learning to set up other apps on your Mac. She will help you save more time by directing and getting you to apps and functions in a second. All you need to do is ask.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your Mac for remote work is easier if you have used an Apple device. New Mac users can also utilize these tips to improve the quality of their workday while working remotely. Always remember to contact AppleCare should you need technical support.
