Forgetting your MacBook password can lead to a frustrating lockout from your device, rendering personal files, applications, and settings inaccessible and potentially disrupting your daily activities and workflow. The recovery process can be time-consuming and daunting, especially for those who need to be better-versed in technical troubleshooting, adding to the stress of being cut off from crucial digital content and tools. To avoid this in the future, we recommend using a reputable password manager. 

Follow these simple steps and options for the MacBook Password reset.

Restore your MacBook Password Using Apple ID:

  1. Turn on your MacBook and wait for the login screen. If you see multiple accounts, choose the one you want to reset.
  2. Click the question mark icon next to the password field (if you set a hint, it might appear here). Press Return or enter the wrong password three times if no hint appears.
  3. Resetting with Apple ID: An arrow will appear beside “Reset it using your Apple ID.” Click that magic arrow.
  4. Verify: You’ll be prompted to choose how to receive a verification code via text or email. Select your preferred method and wait for the code.
  5. Enter the code: Once you receive it, type it in the designated field on your MacBook.
  6. Set your new password: You can create a strong password. Make it strong and something you’ll remember (think of it as your secret handshake with your MacBook).

How do you reset the MacBook Password with the Recovery Key?

This key was generated during FileVault setup and should have been saved somewhere safe. If you have it, you can follow these steps:

  1. Boot up your MacBook and hold down Command + R until you see the Apple logo.
  2. When you see the Utilities menu, choose Disk Utility.
  3. Select your startup disk and click Unlock.
  4. Choose “Use Recovery Key” and enter the key when prompted.
  5. Click Continue, and you can reset your password.

Important: If you still need to save your Recovery Key or remember your regular password and need access to your Apple ID, you might need to erase your MacBook and reinstall MacOS.

Using Another Admin Account:

If you have access to another admin account on the MacBook, you can reset the password through System Preferences:

  1. Log in with the other admin account.
  2. Go to System Preferences > Users & Groups.
  3. Click the lock icon and enter the admin credentials.
  4. Select the user account whose password you want to reset on the left panel.
  5. Click the Reset Password button and follow the prompts to set a new password.

Resetting MacBook Password using Password Reset Assistant:

  1. Boot into Recovery Mode (Command + R during startup).
  2. Open Utilities > Terminal.
  3. Type reset password and press Return.
  4. Select the user’s account and verify with the admin user’s password.
  5. Set a new password for the locked account.

Resetting MacBook Password If You Use FileVault:

If FileVault disk encryption is enabled, you’ll need to use your FileVault recovery key or your Apple ID (if allowed) to reset your password at the login screen. Follow the prompts after selecting your user account and clicking the ‘?’ icon next to the password field.

Changing your MacBook Password:

Changing your MacBook password regularly is essential for security, but the method depends on whether you remember your current password and if you set up FileVault.

If you Remember Your Current Password

1. Changing MacBook password via System Settings:

  • Go to System Settings (formerly System Preferences) > Users & Groups.
  • Click the lock icon and enter your current password.
  • Select your user account and click Change Password.
  • Enter your current password, then set and confirm your new password.

2. Changing MacBook Password via Apple ID:

  • Go to System Settings > Apple ID.
  • Click Password & Security.
  • Enter your current password and select Change Password.
  • Follow the prompts to set and confirm your new password.

Using a password manager is an effective way to protect and manage your MacBook passwords and other credentials. Discover what RoboForm offers for personal and business use, and never forget your MacBook password again. 

Photo by Sergey Zolkin on Unsplash.

Posted by Simon Davis

Simon Davis is the VP of Marketing for RoboForm.

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