KeepArc Lock is designed for short-break privacy. Use the built-in macOS lock screen when you need the operating system itself to lock the user session.
KeepArc Lock ยท Plus
Cover every display without ending your session.
KeepArc Lock creates a protected full-screen cover for a short break while your apps, calls, VPN, and other work can continue in the logged-in macOS session.
While active
- Covers every currently connected display
- Adapts when displays are added or removed
- Hides the Dock and menu bar
- Blocks common app-switching and quit routes
Unlock
Click Unlock or press Return, then approve the macOS system prompt with device-owner authentication such as Touch ID, Apple Watch, or the Mac password.
How it works
A separate cover app takes over the displays.
- 1
Activate KeepArc Lock
Start it from KeepArc, the menu-bar popover, the Dock menu, a global shortcut, or an approved Remote browser.
- 2
Cover all displays
A black full-screen window appears on every connected display with the current time, date, and an Unlock action.
- 3
Keep the session running
The Mac remains logged in, allowing apps and network sessions to continue behind the cover.
- 4
Authenticate to leave
The cover closes only after macOS accepts device-owner authentication.
Display changes
Connect or disconnect a monitor while locked.
KeepArc Lock watches the screen configuration and adds, resizes, or removes cover windows to match the displays currently attached to the Mac.
Failed authentication
If authentication fails or is cancelled, the cover stays active and returns focus to its windows.
Protection while covered
More than a decorative full-screen window.
KeepArc Lock uses macOS window and presentation controls to make common escape routes unavailable while the cover is active.
Screen-saver window level
The cover stays above ordinary application windows on each display.
No app switching
Normal process switching and application hiding are disabled while KeepArc Lock is active.
No Dock or menu bar
System presentation options hide the ordinary navigation surfaces behind the cover.
Quit and logout protection
Force Quit and session-termination routes are disabled, and an attempt to terminate the cover is refused while it is protecting the displays.
Ways to activate
Use the control that is closest when you step away.
KeepArc window or menu bar
Activate the cover from the main window, top bar, or menu-bar popover.
Dock or global shortcut
Use the Dock menu or record a system-wide keyboard shortcut dedicated to KeepArc Lock.
Approved Remote browser
Launch KeepArc Lock from a connected phone or another browser when Remote access is enabled.
Security boundary
Choose the right lock for the situation.
KeepArc Lock protects the visible session without handing control to the macOS login window.
KeepArc Lock
Short break, ongoing work.
Useful when you want the screens covered and authenticated while calls, transfers, VPN sessions, or other active work continue in the current user session.
macOS system lock
Full operating-system lock.
Use the built-in macOS lock when policy, device security, or a longer absence requires the user session itself to be locked.
KeepArc Lock FAQ
What remains active behind the cover.
Does KeepArc Lock sign me out?
No. The current macOS user session remains logged in behind the cover.
Does it cover external monitors?
Yes. It creates a cover for every connected display and reacts to screen-configuration changes.
How do I unlock it?
Choose Unlock or press Return, then complete the macOS authentication prompt.
Is it the same as the macOS lock screen?
No. KeepArc Lock protects a still-running user session. The built-in system lock remains the appropriate choice for full system security.
KeepArc Plus
KeepArc Lock is included during launch access.
KeepArc Plus is currently included for everyone through August 31, 2026.