Forgot Mac password? Easy ways to reset password on a Mac in no time
Apr 09, 2025 am 09:08 AMI forgot my MacBook password! A vacation-induced amnesia struck on my last workday, leaving me locked out of my work Mac. Luckily, my problem-solving skills kicked in, and I found several ways to regain access. Here's how you can unlock your MacBook if you forget your password, plus tips to prevent future forgetfulness.
Quick Password Recovery Solutions:
Scenario | Solution |
---|---|
Mac linked to Apple Account | After three failed login attempts, choose "Reset with Apple Account" and follow the prompts. |
No Apple Account linked | Restart in Recovery Mode (Command R for Intel, Power button for Apple Silicon), go to Utilities > Terminal, and type resetpassword . |
Have a FileVault Recovery Key | At login, select "Reset with Recovery Key" and enter the 28-character code. |
Not an admin on Mac | Ask the administrator to change your password in System Settings > Users & Groups > your username > i icon > Password Change... |
Need to prevent future password issues | Use a password manager like Secrets 4 (available on Setapp). |
Detailed Solutions:
-
Resetting with Apple Account: This is the easiest method, but requires your Mac to be linked to your Apple ID. The steps are detailed in the original article.
-
Recovery Key: If you (or your IT department) created a recovery key beforehand, this is a straightforward solution. The process is outlined in the original article.
-
Recovery Mode: This is the ultimate fallback. It works even without an Apple ID link. Instructions for accessing and using Recovery Mode for both Intel and Apple Silicon Macs are provided in the original article.
-
Changing Password with Another Account: If you share your Mac, an administrator can change your password through System Settings > Users & Groups.
-
Password Hint: If you set a password hint, you can access it at the login screen by clicking the "?" icon.
-
Target Disk Mode (Data Transfer Only): This doesn't directly reset your password but lets you transfer files to another Mac. It's useful if you need to recover your data.
Password Management & Data Protection:
- Secrets 4 (Password Manager): This app securely stores and manages your passwords, eliminating the need to remember them.
- Keychain Access/Passwords app: These built-in Mac apps store passwords you've previously saved.
- Time Machine/Get Backup Pro: Regular backups protect your data even if you lose access to your Mac.
FAQ: The original article's FAQ section is retained, with minor wording adjustments for clarity. The images remain in their original positions. The article concludes with a reminder to prioritize data security and consider using password managers.
The above is the detailed content of Forgot Mac password? Easy ways to reset password on a Mac in no time. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!

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