However, that isn’t a problem. Up until now, you most likely didn’t need any of those programs. All of those I just named are located in the Utilities folder, the folder that can be a bit of a mystery to all beginner Mac users and even some intermediate users. Today, we will demystify the Mac Utilities folder and give a basic synopsis of each application in the Utilities folder..

What Are Utilities Anyway?

The Mac Utilities folder is the section of the Mac where you can learn about and change the nitty gritty of your Mac. While there are some well-known applications that we may make use of regularly, including QuickTime Player, AirPort Utility, or even Terminal, a couple of the applications in Utilities may be a bit foreign to you, like RAID Utility or Console.

Activity Monitor

The central station to find out which applications or programs on your Mac are running.

AirPort Utility

AirPort is Apple’s term for the workings of your WIFI, Internet connection, or Bluetooth.

AppleScript Editor

AppleScript is the Apple program that deals mostly with automating your Mac to do what you want it to do. It’s a bit more difficult than Terminal but gives you more customization options.

Audio MIDI Setup

The place where you can go a bit deeper into auto settings, from decibel levels to even controlling external speakers.

Bluetooth File Exchange

Bluetooth File Exchange is an application that has some mainstream usefulness for all Mac users. Chances are when you are wanting to transfer files through Bluetooth from your phone to your Mac, Bluetooth File Exchange pops up.

Boot Camp Assistant

If you want Windows on your Mac, Boot Camp Assistant is just about the only way to accomplish this.

ColorSync Utility

Did anyone call for iPhoto on overload? ColorSync Utility is that program you’ve been asking for. While it doesn’t store your photos like iPhoto, ColorSync does allow you to go a bit deeper and more specific with the edits that you make with certain images.

Console

Console is mainly a log of all your Mac activities. Many times it is too complicated and crowded to be understood by the average observer. However, those knowledgable will find this place a bit useful when a problem arises on the Mac and they want to narrow down solutions.

DigitalColor Meter

Calling our photography editors out there. This is a simple eyedropper tool allowing you to make a color identification for the color you see but are having a hard time identifying specifically.

Disk Utility

If you are having a bit of an issue with your external hard drive, Disk Utility can assist you in repairing it. This can include reformatting and even clearing data in a more organized and formal way.

Grab

If you’ve ever taken a screenshot on Mac, you’ve used Grab. There isn’t any real benefit of visiting the Grab application instead of using a keyboard shortcut.

Grapher

This is the place where mathematical enthusiasts can create as many equation-based graphs to their hearts content.

Keychain Access

Use Keychain Access to remember and retrieve the passwords that you make use of online. Safari Preferences + Passwords also allows you to access the same passwords.

Migration Assistant

Transfers your old files, software, user accounts, and more from your old Mac to your new Mac.

Network Utility

Everything about your Internet connection, that you can make use of once connected through AirPort Utility, can be found in Network Utility. This is where you can learn about your current performance and IP address, among other things.

QuickTime Player

The Mac equivalent of Windows Media Player. Windows can also make use of QuickTime player.

System Information

Every single thing you need to know about your Mac, from battery health to even hardware information.

Terminal

Similar to AppleScript, Terminal allows your Mac to do just about anything made possible through the use of commands.

VoiceOver Utility

Despite being called VoiceOver Utility, this application covers all accessibility features of Mac for those with a disability.

X11

X11 is a bit confusing, but if you are familiar with Unix, it is simply the GUI for Unix – most notably Linux – users. As you’ve just learned, the Mac Utilities folder comes with a ton of helpful applications. Let us know which applications you were surprised to have found in the folder and which ones you’ll be making use of more often!