FileVault

At a glance

• Editor score
  0.0 / 10
• Pricing
  Free plan
• Best for
  Mac users and organizations encrypting storage
• Free plan
  Yes
• Paid from
  Free
• Facts checked
  23 Sep 2026

• Where it wins

  • Encrypts full volumes on internal and removable storage
  • Encrypts existing files and data written after it is enabled
  • Offers recovery-key generation and optional organizational escrow

• Where it doesn't

  • Does not find files or search their contents
  • Supports macOS rather than other desktop platforms
  • Requires user credentials during startup

Our verdict on FileVault

FileVault is Apple’s built-in encryption capability for Mac computers, intended for individuals and organizations that need to protect data stored on internal or removable volumes. It encrypts existing files and data written after it is enabled, using AES-XTS. This makes it a storage-protection feature, not a desktop search product: it does not help users locate files or search their contents. Buyers looking for encrypted Mac storage may find its purpose relevant; anyone choosing software specifically to search a desktop should look elsewhere.

Its scope is full-volume encryption rather than a standalone file-search workflow. FileVault is available as an included macOS capability, not a separately priced product. Users can enable it on supported Mac storage, and credentials are required during startup. On Macs with Apple silicon or a T2 Security Chip, key handling uses the Secure Enclave. These details make platform fit central to the decision: FileVault is for macOS, not a cross-platform desktop search option. It also supports volume-key deletion, which renders deleted volumes inaccessible.

Recovery is part of the setup and organizational story. macOS generates a recovery key for unlocking FileVault, and organizations can optionally escrow recovery keys through device management. That offers a recovery path while letting organizations manage keys through their device-management approach. FileVault is a practical choice when the requirement is built-in volume encryption on a Mac, including managed Macs that need recovery-key escrow. It should not be selected as a substitute for desktop search software, because its verified role is encrypting storage rather than finding or indexing content.

Your product? Our editors can test FileVault in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →

FileVault pricing

FileVault fact sheet

Alternatives to FileVault

• EverythingA free Windows search utility for instant filename and path discovery.9.3
• Copernic Desktop SearchA Windows search tool for broad local, network, email, and cloud indexing.9.2
• DocFetcherA free, portable full-text search tool for local files, archives, and PST email.9.0

See all FileVault alternatives →

Featured on iTechGuides

FileVault is listed in our Desktop Search Software directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.

<a href="https://www.itechguides.com/products/filevault/"><img src="https://www.itechguides.com/best/badge/filevault.svg" alt="Featured on iTechGuides" width="230" height="46"></a>

Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.

Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update