APFS vs APFS Encrypted

[James Godfrey]

Hi all

I have a 2017 MacBook Pro and want to erase my hard drive and re-install macOS Mojave to start fresh as I find MacOS always runs smoother with a fresh install (rather than just updating), I normally use my Mac with FileVault enabled.

I just have a few questions when erasing my hard drive:

1. Should I use MacOS extended journaled, APFS or APFS encrypted?

2. If I select APFS then enable FileVault will it then become APFS encrypted?

3. To erase my current encrypted drive, after entering my password and erasing the drive will that destroy the encryption key that I was given during the initial set up?

Any help is appreciated.

James

 

[marzer]

That’s a good idea. With such a significant change like a new file system I prefer to do a clean install.

1. Go with AFPS, its Apple’s recommendation for Mojave. I’ve experienced no discernible difference in daily use over HFS. Go with encrypted if you are concerned about the security of your data on the local machine. If you are not concerned about data security on the local machine and prefer access to something like auto login then you want to leave it unencrypted.

2. Yes

3. Yes. A new authentication token will be created with the fresh install. Yes