It may seem hard to reset a MacBook Pro without a password, but it is possible if you know how. A factory reset is the best way to fix a second-hand Mac, get back into your account, or get your MacBook ready to sell. When you reset your MacBook Pro, it erases all of your data and returns it to its original state, making it new and ready to use again.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to reset a MacBook Pro without a password using macOS Recovery Mode, Disc Utility, and other safe ways. You’ll know exactly how to clean your device and set it up as new by the end.
Why would you want to reset a MacBook Pro without a password?
You might need to reset your MacBook Pro without the password in a few different situations:
Forgotten Password: You can’t log in because you forgot your password.
Bought a Used MacBook: A lot of used MacBooks come with old accounts still open.
Getting Ready to Sell: Deleting all personal information before selling or giving it away.
Performance Problems: A clean install of macOS usually fixes lag, errors, or malware.
The good news is that you don’t always need the password to reset your MacBook Pro, no matter what the reason is.
Step 1: Make a backup of your data if you can.
It’s important to back up any important data before resetting. This might not be possible if you don’t have the password to log in. If you can still get to files in Guest User mode, Target Disc Mode, or on an external drive, though, try to save your important data before you wipe the device.
You can use:
- Time Machine (if it was turned on before)
- Hard drive or SSD outside
- iCloud, Google Drive, and Dropbox are examples of cloud storage services.
- Keep in mind that your files will be gone for good after the reset.
Step 2: Boot up your MacBook Pro in Recovery Mode
macOS Recovery Mode is the best way to reset a MacBook Pro without a password. This is how to do it:
- Shut down your MacBook Pro completely.
- Turn it back on and press and hold the following keys right away:
- For Macs with Intel processors: Command (⌘) + R
- For Apple Silicon (M1, M2, etc.): Press and hold the Power button until “Loading Startup Options” shows up. Then, choose Options > Continue.
This will start your Mac in Recovery Mode, which will let you use macOS tools.
Step 3: Use Disc Utility to wipe the hard drive clean
After you get into Recovery Mode:
Choose Disc Utility from the list of options and then click Continue.
Choose your startup disc in Disc Utility. It will usually be called “Macintosh HD.”
At the top of the window, click “Erase.”
Format: APFS or Mac OS Extended (Journaled)
Plan: GUID Partition Map
To confirm, click Erase again.
This process will delete all of your data and any login information.
Step 4: Install macOS again
- You need to reinstall macOS after you erase the disc:
- Close Disc Utility and go back to the macOS Utilities window.
- Choose Reinstall macOS and then click Continue.
- To install a new copy of macOS, follow the instructions on the screen.
Depending on how fast your internet is, the installation process could take a while. After the process is finished, your MacBook Pro will restart and ask you to set it up as if it were a brand new device.
Step 5: Get Your MacBook Pro Ready
You can now set up your MacBook Pro after the reset is done:
- Pick your area and language.
- Get on Wi-Fi.
- Use your Apple ID to sign in, or make a new one.
- Change your settings for Siri, Touch ID, and iCloud.
- Your MacBook Pro is now completely reset, and you don’t need the old password anymore.
What if your MacBook is locked for activation?
If someone else’s Apple ID is linked to your MacBook Pro, Activation Lock will stop you from using it even after you reset it. Activation Lock is a security feature that keeps your stuff from being stolen.
To turn off Activation Lock, you need to
Put in the Apple ID and password of the person who owns it.
If you are the real owner, you can call Apple Support and show them proof of purchase.
If you bought a used MacBook that is locked, get in touch with the seller and ask them to take it off their iCloud account.
After resetting a MacBook Pro, here are some tips
Make a strong password by using a password manager or a phrase that you can remember.
Turn on Find My Mac for better security if your Mac is lost or stolen.
Keep Your Software Up to Date: To keep your Mac running smoothly, install the most recent macOS updates.
Make backups with Time Machine so you don’t lose any data if you have to reset again.
Last Thoughts
It may seem hard to reset a MacBook Pro without a password, but it’s actually very easy with macOS Recovery Mode and Disc Utility. If you forgot your password, bought a used MacBook, or just want to start over, these steps will help you get your device back to working order.
If the MacBook is still linked to an Apple ID, you will need the original credentials to get around Activation Lock. After that, your MacBook Pro will feel like new and be ready to use.
