How to Factory Reset a Mac Without Password in 2024

Resetting a Mac without a password is typically not a straightforward process, and it may be considered a security risk or an unauthorized action. However, there are legitimate scenarios where you might need to reset your Mac without knowing the Password, such as if you’ve forgotten your password and need to regain access to your system. Here’s how you can attempt to reset your Mac’s Password or access your Mac without the Password:

Table of Content hide

1 Reset Mac without a Password in 2024

1.1 Use Apple ID to Reset your Password (macOS Catalina and later)

1.2 Use Another Admin Account

1.3 Use Recovery Mode

1.4 Reinstall macOS (Last Resort)

Reset Mac without a Password in 2024

Use Apple ID to Reset your Password (macOS Catalina and later)

If your Mac is running macOS Catalina or later and you have associated your Apple ID with your user account, you can use the following steps:

Enter the wrong Password three times at the login screen.
Your Mac should offer a “Forgot Password?” or “Reset Password using Apple ID” option. Click on it.
Follow the on-screen instructions to reset your Password using your Apple ID.

Use Another Admin Account

If you have another admin account on your Mac, you can use it to reset the Password of the locked account:

Log in with the admin account.
Go to “System Preferences” > “Users & Groups.”
Select the locked account and click the “Reset Password” button.

Use Recovery Mode

If you don’t have an admin account or the Apple ID method doesn’t work, try resetting the Password using Recovery Mode.

Restart your Mac and hold down Command (⌘) + R during startup to enter Recovery Mode.
Go to “Utilities” > “Terminal.”
In the Terminal, type reset Password and press Enter.
Follow the on-screen instructions to reset the Password.

Reinstall macOS (Last Resort)

If none of the above methods work, you can reinstall macOS, which will erase your data and create a new user account. It should be a last resort because it will result in data loss.

Restart your Mac in Recovery Mode (Command + R).
Choose “Reinstall macOS” and follow the on-screen instructions.

Please note that it’s essential to respect the privacy and security of Mac users, and attempting to reset a password without proper authorization can be illegal and unethical. These methods are intended for use on your own Mac or with the owner’s consent. If you cannot access the Mac legitimately, you should seek help from Apple Support or an authorized service provider.