Q: Reset Time Machine Password to Backup Using External Drive
I have been using Time Machine to backup my files regularly on an External drive. I usually backup my files (using Backup Now option) and then turn off Time Machine. I have been doing this successfully for a month on my new MacBookPro (late 2013 version, purchased 5 March 2014). I used this same procedure successfully since 2010 on a previous Macbook Pro I owned.
I just tried to backup my files, all of a sudden Time Machine now asks me for a password which I don't remember setting. Time Machine Preferences looks like this. 
When I try to set Time Machine On I cannot do it (I used to be able to do it). When I click unlock and try to input my MacbookPro login username and password, but this login/password is not accepted.
Frankly, I have no idea what happened. I must have pushed the wrong button at some point. I don't mind losing my old backus and resetting the password on Time Machine software, provided I can and backup my files right away.
How can I reset the Time Machine password? Any help will be much appreciated.
Francisco
MacBook Pro with Retina display, Mac OS X (10.7.5), WD My Passport Ultra 2 TB external
Posted on May 4, 2014 7:55 AM
Only an Admin user can unlock those preferences. You can either go back to Apple, or quite easily reset the Admin user password yourself.
To do that, start in Recovery by holding Command & R keys after you hear the startup chime.
Once in Recovery, choose Terminal from the Utilities menu at the top of the screen.
In Terminal, type resetpassword followed by the enter key.
An application will open : choose the user that Apple created & follow the prompts to set the password to one of your choice. Restart normally afterwards.
You can then either use that name/password when required; or if you prefer... login to the Admin user & make yourself an Admin too.
Posted on May 5, 2014 3:43 AM

