Macbook Firmware lock removal 2012

Bought a second hand MacBook pro with the folder and question mark symbol, thought this was fine and went to boot from external and was greeted with the firmware lock symbol. I've tried removing a ram stick and PRAM reset but it doesn't work, no matter how many times i try it just goes to the ?. Ive swapped the ssd from my other 2012 with a fully working OS and i get exactly the same. Ant ideas how i can use this laptop without charging the logic board? not sure where its storing the firmware lock?

MacBook Pro

Posted on Dec 8, 2018 11:59 PM

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Posted on Dec 10, 2018 8:28 AM

Firmware locks cannot be simply removed by removing ram or resetting something. There are two ways to remove a firmware lock:

1) Bring the computer to Apple with the *original* purchase receipt for proof of purchase (would work for the person who bought the MacBook in the first place)

2) Have the person you bought the MacBook from give you the firmware password so you can unlock the computer.


Unfortunately, there are no other ways of removing such a firmware password - that's the point of it.

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Dec 10, 2018 8:28 AM in response to thomasrwborough

Firmware locks cannot be simply removed by removing ram or resetting something. There are two ways to remove a firmware lock:

1) Bring the computer to Apple with the *original* purchase receipt for proof of purchase (would work for the person who bought the MacBook in the first place)

2) Have the person you bought the MacBook from give you the firmware password so you can unlock the computer.


Unfortunately, there are no other ways of removing such a firmware password - that's the point of it.

Dec 10, 2018 8:14 AM in response to thomasrwborough

Hi there, thomasrwborough!


Thanks for reaching out to the Apple Support Communities! It sounds like you’re having an issue with needing to remove a firmware lock from your Mac and I’m happy to help! I suggest taking a look at this article with steps to follow for How to set a firmware password on your Mac. Since you do not know the password for the firmware lock and have bought the Mac secondhand, I recommend you check out this section specifically:


If you forgot your firmware password
If you can't remember your firmware password or passcode, schedule an in-person service appointment with an Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider. Bring your Mac to the appointment, and bring your original receipt or invoice as proof of purchase.


Take care!

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Macbook Firmware lock removal 2012

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