The Constant Authentication Barrier
By default, macOS prioritizes security. If you close your MacBook lid, step away from your iMac, or if the screen saver activates due to inactivity, the Mac locks itself. When you return and wake the display, you are immediately presented with a lock screen requiring your user password (or Touch ID) to regain access. This is an essential defense mechanism for laptops used in coffee shops, offices, or dorm rooms.
However, if you are using an iMac or Mac mini that never leaves your securely locked private home office, typing your password 20 times a day just because the screen went to sleep can become incredibly tedious. If physical security is not a concern for your specific environment, you can configure macOS to wake up and immediately present your desktop, bypassing the lock screen entirely.
How to Disable the Password Requirement on Wake
You can turn off this security feature in the Lock Screen settings.
- Click the Apple Logo in the top-left corner of the menu bar and select System Settings… (or System Preferences).
- Scroll down the left-hand sidebar and click on Lock Screen (on older macOS versions, this is found under “Security & Privacy” > “General”).
- Look for the dropdown menu labelled Require password after screen saver begins or display is turned off.
- Click the dropdown menu and select Never.
- A security warning will pop up, asking if you are sure you want to turn off Screen Lock. Click Turn Off Screen Lock to confirm.
- You will be prompted to enter your current Mac password to authorize this security change.
Your Mac will still turn off its display to save energy according to your settings, but pressing a key or clicking the mouse will instantly wake the machine directly to your active desktop, completely bypassing the login screen.