There are a lot of users that are quite confused about where is home folder on Mac? The main reason behind due to there are some folders that contains some parts of the documents but does not have all of them. The home folder on your Mac contains files that are saved on your disk space as well, you need to be able to track it to access all of your files conveniently.
In this article, we will let you know where is home folder on Mac, what the home folder is all about, the components of the home folder, and some informative tips. Also, if you would like to do some personalization, we have included the steps if you would like to rename the home folder, and even hide files or folders on your Mac for privacy.
Part 1. Where Is Home Folder on Mac?
Just in case you are a fairly new user of Mac, the way how the files are organized is a bit confusing. But you will get the hang of it by continuous use. You might be guessing where is home folder on Mac since it is not visible once you open your desktop. You will then need to go to your profile. The icon of the home folder is designed like a house with your username on it. Next is we will show you how to locate the home folder so you would not be catching yourself asking again where is home folder on the Mac.
Four Main Folders Inside the Home Folder
There are four main folders inside your Mac folder that is created by default from Mac, these are vital on your Mac and we would suggest not to make any changes to it or delete the entire folders. You can remove the items inside of those folders like your files, but we discourage removing the main folders inside the home folder.
Desktop – In the event that you saved some files on your desktop, such as applications, documents, and images you can see them in this folder.
Documents – Usually this is where the files like a word file, spreadsheets, presentations, and downloads are saved.
Library – This is where your preferences are stored like the settings that you have made on your Mac, your mail attachments can also be included here and app-related files.
Public – If you are using a shared Mac or using a local area network shared files can be found here. If you saved some files here other users can view it too, but if you saved files on your home folder others will not be able to see it.
Guide on How to Locate Home Folder on Mac
Steps on how to locate the home folder on Mac is a bit pretty easy and you can quickly identify the home folder because of its icon that is designed like a house as well.
- Use Finder to locate the home folder > Press
Command + Shift + H> Select Go on the Toolbar - Select Home on the dropdown list.
Part 2. How to Rename Your Home Folder
For added personalization, you may rename your home folder into your preference like your nickname, screen name, or your usual username. You can do the rename for editing or you can also create for the new user. Though you have to remember that prior to doing this, is to make sure to back up your files first.
To do it, just follow the instructions below.
- Locate System Preferences > Click on the Users and Groups Icon > Select your Folder to highlight
- Click on the lock icon at the bottom of the screen > Enter your Password
- Highlight your Folder again > Select Advanced Options
- Key in your preferred username beside User ID, Account Name, Full Name, and the Home Directory > Click Ok
- You will then need to key in your password again for confirmation
- You have to update this through the terminal app and type:
sudo mv/Users/(insert old name)/Users/(insert new name)
- Hit Enter
- It will ask again for your password > Key your password > Hit Enter
- Reboot your Mac
