What should I do if I forgot my MacBook Pro M4 password

Using Apple ID to Reset Password

If you have previously set up your MacBook Pro to allow password resets via Apple ID, this is one of the quickest methods. However, if you don't remember your Apple ID or haven't set this up, you'll need to use another method.

1. Boot into Recovery Mode:
- For M1 and later Macs (like the M4), turn off your MacBook Pro. Press and hold the power button until you see the startup options. Click Options and then Continue.
- For Intel Macs, restart and hold Command + R until you see the Apple logo.

2. Access Utilities: Once in Recovery Mode, click Utilities in the menu bar and select Terminal.

3. Open Reset Password Tool: In the Terminal window, type `resetpassword` and press Return. This will open the Reset Password Assistant.

4. Reset Password: Follow the on-screen instructions. You'll need to sign in with your Apple ID and password. Apple will send a verification code to your other devices signed in with the same Apple ID. Enter this code to proceed.

5. Create New Password: Select your user account and create a new password. Click Save to apply the changes.

6. Restart and Log In: Restart your MacBook Pro and log in with your new password.

Using Recovery Mode Without Apple ID

If you don't have access to your Apple ID or haven't set it up for password recovery, you can still use Recovery Mode to reset your password.

1. Boot into Recovery Mode: Follow the same steps as above to enter Recovery Mode.

2. Access Utilities: Go to Utilities > Terminal.

3. Open Reset Password Tool: Type `resetpassword` in the Terminal and press Return.

4. Reset Password: Click on “Forgot all passwords?” and follow the on-screen instructions. You might need to select a user account and create a new password.

5. Restart and Log In: Once done, restart your MacBook Pro and log in with the new password.

Using a Recovery Key (FileVault)

If you have enabled FileVault on your MacBook Pro, you can use a recovery key to reset your password.

1. Enable FileVault: If you haven't already, go to System Settings > Privacy & Security > FileVault and turn it on. You'll be prompted to create a recovery key.

2. Store Recovery Key Safely: Make sure to store the recovery key securely, as you won't be able to recover it if lost.

3. Reset Password with Recovery Key:
- At the login screen, click the question mark icon next to the password field.
- Select Reset it using your recovery key.
- Enter your recovery key and create a new password.

4. Log In: Once you've reset your password, you can log in with the new credentials.

Additional Options

- Target Disk Mode: If you have another Mac, you can use Target Disk Mode to transfer files from the locked MacBook Pro. This doesn't unlock the device but allows you to retrieve important data.
- iCloud (Find My Mac): If you have set up Find My Mac, you can use iCloud to remotely erase your MacBook Pro and set up a new password. However, this will erase all data, so use it only if you have backups.

Each of these methods provides a way to regain access to your MacBook Pro M4 if you've forgotten your password. Choose the method that best fits your situation and setup.