How to Unlock a Mac Without a Password Without Losing Data

Penny Warren Published on June 11, 2025Unlock iOS3-min reading

We cannot deny that some MacBook users forget their passwords and cannot log in. It can be frustrating, but do not worry. There are many simple ways to unlock a Mac without a password that will not erase your data. Even if you are not good with tech, these approaches are easy to follow and safe to try. Just follow the steps and pick the method that works best for you. Keep scrolling!

In this article:

Method 1: Reset Mac Password with Apple ID
Method 2: How to Unlock a Mac with Another Account
Method 3: How to Unlock Mac via FileVault
Method 4: How to Unlock a Mac with an Apple Watch
Method 5: How to Unlock Mac Pro with Firmware Password
Method 6: How to Unlock MacBook Air via Disk Utility
Bonus Tip: How to Unlock iPhone Without Password

Method 1: Reset Mac Password with Apple ID

If you forget your Mac password, do not worry; you can use your Apple ID to unlock it. It works because your Mac links to your Apple account. It is one of the easiest and safest ways to get back in. You have to enter the wrong password a few times. Then, your Mac will ask if you want to reset it with your Apple ID.

Step 1

Type the wrong password three times until a message shows up.

Step 2

Click the option that says you can reset using your Apple ID.

Step 3

Input your Apple ID and password to confirm who you are.

Step 4

Choose the account, set a new password, and click Reset Password.

Method 2: How to Unlock a Mac with Another Account

MacBooks can have more than one account. If another account still works, you can use that one to reset the password for the one you forgot. It only works if the other account has admin rights. You log in with the working account and change the password for the locked one.

Here is how to unlock a Mac with another account:

Step 1

Imagine you are using your sister's account: log in with that one.

Step 2

Go to System Settings and click Users and Groups.

Step 3

Click the little Lock button and type the admin password.

Step 4

Pick the locked account, click Reset Password, and make a new one.

Method 3: How to Unlock Mac via FileVault

FileVault helps keep your Mac safe by locking your files. But if you forget your password, FileVault still gives you access with your Apple ID or a special recovery key. You need to use the Terminal in Recovery Mode. This method is more advanced, but it works great if FileVault is turned on.

Step 1

Reset your Mac and hold Command + R to open Recovery Mode.

Step 2

Click Utilities at the top, then choose Terminal.

Step 3

Type resetpassword (one word) and hit Return.

Step 4

Follow the screen. Use your Apple ID or FileVault key to reset.

Method 4: How to Unlock a Mac with an Apple Watch

If you have an Apple Watch, unlocking your Mac can be easy. It works if both devices use the same Apple ID, have two-factor authentication enabled, and your watch has a passcode. It is a hands-free way to skip typing your password all the time. You just need to turn it on first in your Mac's settings.

Below are the easy steps on how to unlock a Mac with an Apple Watch:

Step 1

Go to Apple Menu > System Settings > Touch ID & Password (macOS Ventura+).

Step 2

Turn on the setting for Apple Watch unlock.

Step 3

On older macOS, go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy.

Step 4

Check Allow Apple Watch to unlock Mac. That is it!

Method 5: How to Unlock Mac Pro with Firmware Password

A firmware password stops people from using other disks to boot your Mac. If this password is on, you must turn it off to reset your Mac. This method is for more protected Macs. You must go into Recovery Mode and turn off the firmware lock. After that, you can go back in and set a new login password. Just make sure you remember this one next time!

Step 1

Restart your Mac and press Command + R to enter Recovery Mode.

Step 2

Choose Startup Security Utility or Firmware Password Utility.

Step 3

Type the firmware password and click Disable Firmware Password.

Step 4

Restart again and enter your new login info.

Method 6: How to Unlock MacBook Air via Disk Utility

If none of the other methods work, this one will. It erases everything on your Mac and reinstalls macOS. You should only do this if you have backed up your stuff or do not mind losing it. It gives your Mac a clean start. After reinstalling, you can set up your Mac, including a new password.

Rely on the tutorial below to learn how to unlock a Mac Air without a password via Disk Utility:

Step 1

Reboot your Mac and hold Command + R until you see the Apple logo.

Step 2

In the menu, click Disk Utility and pick your main volume.

Step 3

Hit Erase to delete the drive and confirm when asked.

Step 4

When done, return to the main menu, click Reinstall macOS, and follow the prompts. After that, you can change the password on your MacBook to get a fresh start.

Bonus Tip: How to Unlock iPhone Without Password

Forgot your iPhone password and cannot get in? That can feel really scary, especially when you need your phone fast. But do not panic; there is an easy fix! imyPass iPassGo can help you unlock your iPhone without a password. It works even if you forgot a 4-digit code, a 6-digit code, a Face ID, or a Touch ID. No matter what kind of lock is on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod, this tool can handle it. On top of that, it is easy to use and makes the whole process quick and smooth.

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Step 1

First, go to the official imyPass website and download imyPass iPassGo. Install it on your computer like a normal application. Open it, and on the main screen, pick Wipe Passcode. Now, use a USB cable to plug your iPhone into your computer.

Step 2

After you connect your iPhone, the application will show some device details. Make sure the information is correct before clicking Start. Next, imyPass iPassGo will begin downloading the correct firmware for your phone. You need to wait for this to finish. Do not close anything while it downloads.

Step 3

When the firmware is ready, click the Unlock button. Type 0000 to confirm you want to go ahead. imyPass iPassGo will now start unlocking your iPhone.

Step 4

The application will now remove your screen lock. It takes a few minutes, so stay calm and wait. After it is done, your iPhone will be unlocked and ready. You can now set up a new passcode, Apple ID, Face ID, or Touch ID.

iMypass iPassgo Unlock iPhone Without Password

You can surely rely on imyPass iPassGo if you forget your iPhone, iPad, or iPod password. It offers a quick and easy way to get back in. Just rely on the steps, and your device will be unlocked in no time.

Conclusion

Your problem is solved now, as you know how to unlock a Mac computer without a password. You do not need to feel stuck or worried anymore. With simple steps, you can get back into your Mac and use it like before.

If you experience this problem on your mobile device, try imyPass iPassGo. It is made to help people unlock their iPhones, iPads, and iPods without a password. It works fast, is safe to use, and requires no tech skills.

Penny Warren

Penny Warren, a senior editor from imyPass, is specialized in MS Office software. You can find professional tutorials and solutions of MS Office software from her posts.