Read our guide to learn more about folders you shouldn’t touch in the macOS file system.

There’s no reason for you to touch anything in this folder. Only macOS has the access to modify this data, and only system-level events should affect it. This contains data that macOS needs to operate. It contains user-specific application data, preferences, support files, Mail settings, Safari bookmarks, browsing history data, and more.įinally, the System Library is located at /System/Library This folder is hidden and located on the same level as your Documents and Downloads folders. In here, you’ll find screensavers, wallpapers, applications, and more that share the data or preferences with all users on the computer.Įach user also has a user Library folder in the Home folder, located at ~/Library This is a folder that’s shared among all users on the Mac and controls system-wide settings. The main Library folder is located on the root of your hard drive, located at /Library This feature is available in all Finder window views which include Icon, List, Column, and Cover Flow.įor more tips and tricks on how to make better use of your Mac, iOS device, Apple Watch, or Apple TV, be sure to visit the “How To” section of our website.There are three main Library folders: the “main Library” folder, the “user Library” folder, and the “system Library” folder.

When in the Finder, click “View” -> “Show Path Bar” in the Finder menu as shown below:Īfter selecting this option you’ll see your current folder location on the hard drive in the Status Bar at the bottom of the Finder window, as seen below:ĭouble click on any folder listed in the path that bar to be taken directly to that folder. Thus, when a user turns the Mac on, he finds his own Home folder and can access only his own files, unless another user shares a folder with him. The Path Bar will show where exactly you are in your file structure, leading all the way back to the drive’s root directory. Instead of trying to figure out where you’re at by clicking the Path icon in your toolbar, just set your preferences to show the Path Bar, so you’ll always know exactly where you are. How To Find Your Folder Location In The Finder on the Mac Have you ever gotten lost while browsing 12 folders deep on your hard drive in a Finder window on your Mac? Here’s quick way to tell exactly where in the directory you actually are.

How to find directory on a mac