Desktop Quick Use Guide
macOS provides quick access to commonly used computer settings directly from the desktop. This guide explains how to use the menu bar, Control Center, and Dock to manage everyday settings and applications.
These features allow you to manage wireless connections, adjust audio and display settings, and navigate your Mac without opening additional applications. Note: The appearance and location of some settings may vary depending on your macOS version and computer model.
1. Menu Bar and Control Center
The menu bar is located at the top of your screen. It provides access to application menus, system controls, and notifications.
Control Center provides quick access to commonly used settings without opening System Settings.
- Locate the Control Center icon near the upper-right corner of the menu bar.
- Select the icon to open Control Center.
- Choose the setting you want to adjust.
Tip: Control Center is the quickest way to access Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, sound, and other frequently used settings.
2. Managing Wi-Fi Connections
Use Control Center to connect to available wireless networks or check your current connection.
- Open Control Center.
- Select Wi-Fi to view available networks.
- Select the network you want to connect to.
- Enter the network password if prompted.
Tip: If your Mac is not connected to Wi-Fi, confirm that Wi-Fi is enabled and that you have selected the correct network.
3. Managing Bluetooth Devices
Bluetooth allows your Mac to connect to compatible wireless devices, including keyboards, mice, and headsets.
- Open Control Center.
- Select Bluetooth.
- Confirm Bluetooth is enabled.
- Select an available or previously paired device to connect.
To pair a new device, open System Settings > Bluetooth and follow the pairing instructions provided by the device manufacturer.
Note: Some Bluetooth devices must be placed into pairing mode before they appear as available devices.
4. Adjusting Display Brightness
You can adjust the brightness of your Mac's built-in display directly from Control Center.
- Open Control Center.
- Locate the Display brightness slider.
- Move the slider left to decrease brightness or right to increase it.
Note: External monitors may require brightness adjustments using the monitor's physical controls.
5. Adjusting Volume and Audio Output
Control Center allows you to adjust speaker volume and select the device used for audio playback.
- Open Control Center.
- Locate the Sound volume slider.
- Move the slider to adjust the volume.
- Select the Sound control to view available audio output devices.
- Choose your preferred speakers or headset.
Tip: If you cannot hear audio, confirm that the correct output device is selected and the volume is not muted.
6. Using the Dock
The Dock provides quick access to frequently used applications, open applications, and the Trash.
- Locate the Dock, typically at the bottom of your screen.
- Select an application icon to open or switch to it.
- To keep an application in the Dock, right-click or Control-click its icon.
- Select Options > Keep in Dock.
Tip: Press Command + Tab to quickly switch between open applications.
7. Accessing System Settings
System Settings provides additional options for managing your Mac, including displays, sound, network connections, and connected devices.
- Select the Apple menu in the upper-left corner of your screen.
- Select System Settings.
- Choose a category from the sidebar or use the search field to find a specific setting.
Tip: You can also open System Settings using Spotlight Search. Press Command + Space, type System Settings, and press Return.
Troubleshooting / Notes
- Wi-Fi not connecting: Confirm Wi-Fi is enabled, select the correct network, and verify your connection.
- Bluetooth device not appearing: Confirm the device is powered on, within range, and in pairing mode.
- No audio: Check the volume level and selected audio output device.
- Display too dim: Adjust the brightness slider or check the external monitor's physical controls.
- Application not responding: Try closing and reopening the application. If necessary, restart your Mac.
Important: Some settings on MCCCD-managed computers may be restricted or managed by Information Technology. Contact Customer Care if a required setting is unavailable.
Additional Resources
For additional support and self-help resources, visit the ITS Service Catalog at help.maricopa.edu or contact the District Information Technology Service support line at 480-731-8632.