ZachOperating System Navigation
Finder: Learn how to use Finder for navigating the file system, managing files and folders, and understanding the layout of macOS. Dock: Understand how to customize and use the Dock for quick access to applications and files.
File System
File System Structure: Get familiar with the macOS file system structure, including directories like /Applications, /Library, /System, and /Users.
File Permissions: Learn how to manage file permissions and ownership using the Get Info panel and command-line tools like chmod, chown, and chgrp.
System Monitoring and Management
Activity Monitor: Use Activity Monitor to view and manage system processes, CPU, memory, disk usage, and network activity.
System Logs: Access and analyze system logs using the Console application and log files located in /var/log.
Hardware and Device Management
System Information: Use the System Information app to view detailed information about the hardware and software configuration of the Mac. Disk Utility: Learn how to use Disk Utility for managing disks and storage devices, including formatting, partitioning, and repairing disks.
Configuration and Settings
System Preferences: Understand how to configure system settings using System Preferences for various aspects like network, display, and user accounts. Network Configuration: Learn how to configure network settings, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, VPN, and proxy settings.
Networking
Network Tools: Use built-in network tools like ping, traceroute, netstat, and Network Utility for network troubleshooting.
Remote Access: Learn how to use remote access tools like Screen Sharing, SSH, and Apple Remote Desktop for managing remote systems.
Security Features
User and Group Management: Manage user accounts and groups using System Preferences and command-line tools like dscl and dseditgroup.
Firewall and Security: Configure the built-in firewall, enable FileVault for disk encryption, and understand the security features like Gatekeeper and System Integrity Protection (SIP).
System Updates and Software Management
Software Updates: Learn how to check for and install macOS updates and software updates through the App Store and System Preferences. Package Managers: Familiarize yourself with third-party package managers like Homebrew for installing and managing software packages.
Backup & Recovery
Time Machine: Understand how to set up and use Time Machine for automatic backups and how to restore data from backups. Recovery Mode: Learn how to use macOS Recovery Mode for troubleshooting, reinstalling macOS, and using Disk Utility for repairs.
Virtualization
Virtualization Tools: Explore virtualization tools like Parallels Desktop, VMware Fusion, and VirtualBox for running virtual machines on macOS.
Software Installation & Removal
Installing Software: Learn how to install software from the App Store, downloaded .dmg files, and using command-line tools.
Uninstalling Software: Understand how to properly uninstall software using the Finder, Launchpad, and command-line tools.
Command Line Interface
Terminal: Get familiar with the Terminal app and basic command-line operations, including navigation, file manipulation, and running scripts.
Shell Scripting: Learn the basics of shell scripting with bash or zsh to automate tasks and enhance productivity.
Security Policies and Practices
Keychain Access: Understand how to use Keychain Access for managing passwords, certificates, and secure notes. Privacy Settings: Configure privacy settings for apps, location services, and data sharing to enhance security.
Troubleshooting Tools
Diagnostic Tools: Use built-in diagnostic tools like Disk Utility, Apple Diagnostics, and third-party tools for system diagnostics and troubleshooting. Common Issues: Learn how to troubleshoot common macOS issues such as application crashes, system performance problems, and connectivity issues.