Published on December 19th, 2020 | by Sunit Nandi

A Handy Guide To MacBook

For those switching from Windows to Mac, it can sometimes be a difficult adjustment. One of the difficult adjustments is switching from Google Chrome to Mac’s Safari. However, if you want to keep using Chrome you might need to first download it as you did in Windows. You can either directly download it from the Chrome website or from Mac App Store. You might also be prepared to still see the “Err_cache_miss” error on Chrome on Mac since it occurs on Chrome, and not just on Windows. The “Err_Cache_Miss” usually appears alongside the “Confirm Form Resubmission” message when you are browsing on Google Chrome. The error is related to browsing caches of the particular website you’re visiting or even Google Chrome itself. This can especially occur if you have badly configured settings because of the Website you’re trying to access. For example, the website you’re trying to visit could be having incorrect coding (wrongly coded pages) or PHP issues. In most cases, reloading the page will sort you out. But you can also try clearing your browser data, checking the stability of your network, or updating your browser. However, what you need to realise is that it is a very similar operating system, but only better. In Windows, the interface used to always feel slower and more clunky, but with Mac, everything is much easy, seamless and pleasant to use, ensuring you a better user experience. So, we decided to dive into everything Mac and give you a handy guide on how you can better use your new Apple computer.

MacBook-Air

Using macOS And It’s Features

Here is a short list of some of the main applications you should be familiar with:

Dock — This is accessible at the bottom of your screen and usually contains the applications and features that you find on a Windows desktop. This includes things like; Safari browser, App Store, Music, Launchpad etc.
Finder — This is the main window where all your documents, files, applications and hard-drives are located.
Launchpad — This is the rocket-shaped icon that is on your Dock. It essentially opens up a window with all the applications available on your Mac..
App Store — This basically opens a window to Apple’s Mac App Store, where you can browse, purchase and download new applications for your Mac. However, to do so will require an Apple ID.
Siri — This is simply Apple’s digital assistant that can be useful in carrying out basic tasks like opening documents, playing music, checking time, making online orders, search and browse for information etc.
Menu bar — The menu bar is basically a permanent bar at the top of your Mac screen that is filled with indicators and app shortcuts, as well as extensions such as WiFi, language settings, time etc.
Search bar — This is your go-to point of reference when trying to find information, files, folders, music or images quickly.
Safari browser — The Safari browser is native to every Mac and Apple device. Moreover, in the latest Big Sur macOS software update, Safari has now been updated to be 50% faster than Google Chrome, making it your new go-to browser.
Photos — Apple’s Photos app is your one stop hub for storing all your images, image editing, import-export, iPhone sync etc. It is also one of your Mac’s pre-installed applications.

Using The Finder To Access Files and Folders

Finder, is basically your window to accessing any file, document or folder that is stored in your Mac or external storage spaces. If you are a new Mac user, it is preferable that you sync your Mac with any other personal devices eg. iPhone, to make it easier for you to access other stored files. In the event that you need to delete a file, you can either right click it and select ‘Move To Trash’ or press the command and delete buttons.

Utilizing the Mac Trackpad

If you’re one of those users who normally prefers to use a mouse instead of a track pad, that is understandable. In such cases making use of a usb c hub docking station will come in handy. However, if like most users, prefer using a trackpad, you can always adapt the trackpad’s movements to suit your needs by heading to your Mac settings.

magic-mouse-gestures

Where Can I Download New Apps?

When you first get your MacBook you will normally already have a number of pre-installed applications, so in terms of basic usage, you should be able to find what you need available in the Launchpad window. However, in the event you need more customised options, you have tow options to download new apps:

1. The Mac App Store

This is normally the first and most popular place for Mac users to download new applications. The only issue is that it can sometimes be difficult to ascertain which apps are best for your needs and the reviews never really tend to be that helpful in helping you make that decision as well. However, the good news is that if you do come across an application that isn’t as good as you hoped it would be, you can always request a refund through the invoice email you get after each purchase.

2. Direct Download

The other alternative option that you can take is to head off to Google and browse for the application you need then download the .dmg application file directly from the software developer’s website. However, downloading third-party apps comes with it’s own level of risk, since downloading software that isn’t from the Mac App store can essentially be carrying malicious apps and viruses.

Important Applications You Should Know About

1. Apple ID

When you own a MacBook or iPhone, everything is essentially tied back to your Apple ID account. For those unfamiliar with it, it is basically an identifier that comes carrying all your payment information, app information, purchase history etc. You can head off to your Mac settings and set it up by selecting “iCloud”.

2. Apple Keychain

Another useful feature with MacBook’s, is the Keychain application that conveniently stores all your passwords and credentials. It also ensures that your private information remains secure and out fo reach from unauthorised users.

Conclusion

If you just recently purchased a MacBook, then relax and enjoy the ride. There is a lot more to experience from this device and you’re definitely going to love it. Keep in mind that you should avoid downloading too many apps as you do not want to end up overloading your Mac’s memory space. Additionally, you should consider purchasing a leather macbook pro 13 sleeve to protect your MacBook from damage or scratches when on the move.

Tags: Apple, guide, Macbook

About the Author

Sunit Nandi I'm the leader of Techno FAQ. Also an engineering college student with immense interest in science and technology. Other interests include literature, coin collecting, gardening and photography. Always wish to live life like there's no tomorrow.