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Forgetting a password can happen to anyone, and it can be frustrating, especially when you can’t access your own device. If you have forgotten your Mac password, don’t worry; you are not alone. Many people have been in the same situation as you. The only difference is how they handled the situation. Some have opted to start over by wiping their Mac, while others have sought help from experts. However, these solutions can be costly and time-consuming. That’s why we are here to help you bypass your forgotten Mac password with ease.
Unlocking your Mac can help you in many ways. For instance, it gives you access to your files, contacts, and other essential items stored on your Mac. You can also use the unlocked Mac to complete pending tasks and access important files for work or personal use.
Video Tutorial:
Things You Should Prepare for?
Before attempting to unlock your Mac, there are a few things you should prepare for to make the process smoother.
1. Another device or computer
You’ll need another device or computer to download and create a bootable drive. This option is for Mac users who have also forgotten their Apple ID password.
2. Another Apple device
For those who haven’t forgotten their Apple ID password, you can use another Apple device like an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch with the latest version of iOS or iPadOS installed.
3. Time
Depending on the unlocking method you choose, the process can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours. Therefore, find a time when you are free from other work so that you can fully concentrate on the process.
Method 1: Use Apple Id Account For Bypassing Mac Password
One of the easiest ways to bypass your Mac password is by using your Apple ID account. However, this method only works if you have activated two-factor authentication on your account and if your Mac is connected to the internet. Here’s how you can use your Apple ID account to bypass your Mac password.
1. On your locked Mac, click on the " ? " icon located next to the password field.
2. Type in any random password and click the "Enter" key three times.
3. Your Mac will then ask you if you want to reset your password using your Apple ID. Click on the "Reset Password" button.
4. Enter your Apple ID username and password, then click "OK".
5. Choose the drive that your OS X runs on and select the user account that you want to reset.
6. Set a new password for your account and click on "Reset Password!"
Pros:
– It’s easy and straightforward
– You only need access to your Apple ID account
– It doesn’t require any external devices.
Cons:
– You need two-factor authentication enabled
– Requires internet access to work
Method 2: Reset Password through Recovery Mode
Another way of bypassing your forgotten Mac password is by using the recovery mode. This method requires no external devices and is easy to follow. Here’s how you can use the recovery mode to bypass your Mac password.
1. Restart your Mac and hold down the "Command" key + "R" key immediately after the startup sound.
2. Release the keys once the Apple logo appears.
3. Once the recovery mode loads, click on the "Utilities" menu and select "Terminal."
4. Type "reset password" without quotes and press enter.
5. The password reset utility will then appear. Select your hard drive from the drop-down menu.
6. Choose the user account whose password you want to reset, and then click on "Next."
7. Enter a new password and re-enter it for verification purposes. You can also add a hint to help you remember your new password if you forget it again.
8. Click on "Save" and then "Restart."
Pros:
– No external device needed.
– It’s a reliable method for resetting the password.
– The process is easy.
Cons:
– You need to enter commands in Terminal.
Method 3: Use Third-party Software
The third way of bypassing your forgotten Mac password is by using third-party software. While this solution can be a bit expensive, it is worth the investment if the other methods haven’t worked for you. There are many third-party software options, but we will focus on one of the best: iMyFone LockWiper.
1. Download and install iMyFone LockWiper on another computer, then connect your locked Mac to the other computer using a USB cable.
2. Click on the "Start" button on iMyFone LockWiper.
3. Follow the instructions on the screen to put your locked Mac into DFU mode.
4. Click on "Download" to download the firmware package for your Mac.
5. Once the package has been downloaded, click on "Start to Extract."
6. Click on "Start Unlock" to unlock your device.
Pros:
– Works even if you don’t have access to your Apple ID or recovery mode.
– Bypasses forgotten passwords in a more simple way.
– iMyFone LockWiper is an efficient and reliable tool.
Cons:
– It requires installation of third-party software which is expensive
– You must have a USB cable to connect a Mac to another computer with installed software.
Why Can’t I Unlock My Mac?
1. Entering wrong passwords repeatedly
If you enter an incorrect password too many times, your Mac can become disabled. To fix this, wait for some time and try again.
2. Not connecting to the internet
Some methods require internet connection to work. Ensure that your Mac is connected to the internet if you want to use these methods.
3. Running an outdated OS
If your OS is outdated, it can become difficult to unlock your Mac. Ensure that your Mac has the latest OS installed for the best performance.
FAQ’s
Q: Can I unlock my Mac without resetting my password?
A: No. You need to reset your password to gain access to your Mac.
Q: Can I use any Apple device to unlock my Mac?
A: No. You need to use another Apple device with the latest iOS or iPadOS installed.
Q: I’ve tried resetting my password, but it isn’t working. What should I do?
A: Ensure that you are following the correct steps and that your internet connection is stable. If the problem persists, seek assistance from an expert.
Q: Does using third-party software pose a risk to my data?
A: No. iMyFone LockWiper is safe and won’t affect your data.
Q: Can I circumvent the Mac’s security features and remove the password?
A: No. It is unwise to do so as it can compromise the security of your device.
Additional Tips
1. Using a password manager
Since forgetting passwords is common, you can use password managers to store your login credentials for easy retrieval.
2. Regularly updating your password
To avoid forgetting your password, it’s important to change it regularly to something that you can remember easily.
In Conclusion
Forgetting your Mac password can be a daunting experience, but with the methods we’ve outlined above, you can bypass your forgotten password with ease. Remember to prepare adequately before attempting any of these methods and follow the steps closely. You can also ask for help if you get stuck. Using password managers and updating your password regularly can also help you avoid a situation where you forget your password.