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How to Reset Your Apple Computer Password

  • MicroSec
  • Apr 27
  • 3 min read

We’ve all been there — that dreaded moment when you sit down to work, type your Mac password… and your mind goes blank.

Whether it’s a personal device or your work Mac desktop, forgetting your Apple computer password can bring productivity to a grinding halt. But don’t panic — this blog will walk you through how to reset your Mac desktop password step by step, explain why it happens, and show you why sometimes calling in remote IT pros (like us at MicroSec) might just save you time, money, and stress.

How to Reset the Mac Password: Step-by-Step

1. Try the Password Hint (If You Set One)

Sometimes the solution is right in front of you. At the login screen:

  • Click the question mark next to the password field.

  • If a hint appears, give it a go.

No luck? Let’s go deeper.

2. Use Your Apple ID (If You Linked It)

If your Mac is connected to your Apple ID:

  • At the login screen, click “Forgot Password?”.

  • Enter your Apple ID credentials.

  • Follow the prompts to reset the password.

But what if you don’t remember your Apple ID either? Or you never set it up?

3. Reset with Recovery Mode

Here’s how to reset the password on a Mac desktop through Recovery Mode:

For Intel Macs:

  1. Turn off your Mac.

  2. Press and hold Command + R immediately after turning it back on.

  3. Select Utilities > Terminal.

  4. Type reset password and press Enter.

  5. Follow the on-screen steps to reset the password.

For M1 or M2 Macs:

  1. Turn off your Mac.

  2. Press and hold the Power button until “Loading Startup Options” appears.

  3. Select Options > Continue.

  4. Go to Utilities > Terminal.

  5. Type reset password and hit Return.

Pro Tip: If you see the message "You need to enter a Recovery Key", it's because your FileVault encryption is on. That leads us to…

How to Find Mac Recovery Key

Your Recovery Key is a 28-character code you created when enabling FileVault.

Here’s how to find it (if you saved it):

  • Check your iCloud account, printout, or password manager.

  • If your company’s IT department sets up the Mac, they might have it.

  • No luck? Your data might be locked, so it's time to call a pro.

Did You Know? A lost Recovery Key with FileVault enabled means your data is permanently encrypted. There's no backdoor. That’s how secure Apple is.

How Do I Change My Mac Password If I’m Already Logged In?

If you still have access to your Mac and just want to change the password:

  1. Go to System Settings > Users & Groups.

  2. Click on your username.

  3. Choose Change Password.

  4. Enter your old password and then the new one.

This method is fast, safe, and doesn’t require Recovery Mode.

"I Forgot My Apple Computer Password" — When to Call a Pro

If you’re stuck thinking:

  • “I forgot my Apple computer password, and nothing is working.”

  • “How do I change my Mac password if I can’t log in?”

  • “How do I reset the Mac password without an Apple ID or Recovery Key?”

You’re likely dealing with:

  • FileVault encryption

  • Unlinked Apple ID

  • No recovery options

That’s where MicroSec’s Remote IT Services can help. We’ve helped hundreds of users and businesses recover access, reset passwords, and secure systems remotely.

Why MicroSec?

  • 100% Remote Access – Get help without visiting a service center.

  • Fast Resolution – Most password issues are resolved in under 30 minutes.

  • Certified Experts – Experienced with both Intel and Apple Silicon Macs.

  • Security First – Your privacy is our top priority.

  • Affordable Plans – Pay per fix or subscribe for ongoing support.

Final Thoughts

Forgetting your Mac password might feel like hitting a wall, but in most cases, it’s fixable. Whether you’re wondering how to change your Mac's password, reset the Mac desktop password, or find the Mac recovery key, you’ve now got a clear guide.

But when time is money, or the steps feel too risky, don’t go it alone.

MicroSec’s remote IT team is just a click away.

Contact us now for expert help resetting your Mac password or any other tech trouble.

TL;DR

Problem

Solution

Forgot Mac password

Use Apple ID, Terminal, or Recovery Mode

Forgot Apple ID too

Use FileVault recovery key or contact support

Can't access anything

Call MicroSec’s remote IT team

Just want to change it

Go to Settings > Users & Groups

FAQs

Q: Can I reset my Mac password without an Apple ID or recovery key? 

A: Yes, but only if FileVault is off. Otherwise, you’ll need at least one of them.

Q: What if I forgot the recovery key?  A: Unfortunately, your data may be unrecoverable. That’s why we recommend storing it securely or using a password manager.

Q: Does resetting my Mac password delete my data? 

A: Not necessarily — but if FileVault is enabled and recovery options are unavailable, data access might be impossible.


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