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mac OS Big Sur unable to unlock preferences

Just updated to Big Sur, and when trying to make changes in the System Preferences, the admin password doesn't work. (Can't unlock the preferences).


It does work though, when accessing the computer.


Solutions?


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Posted on Dec 23, 2020 11:43 AM

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5 replies

Dec 23, 2020 11:45 AM in response to oriolbcn73

Try booting into Safe Mode by booting with the Shift key held down and check there to see if the problem persists.  Reboot normally and test again.


NOTE: Safe Mode boot can take up to 10 minutes as it's doing the following; 

• Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair directory issues, if needed

• Loads only required kernel extensions (prevents 3rd party kernel/extensions from loading)

• Prevents Startup Items and Login Items from opening automatically

• Disables user-installed fonts 

• Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and other system cache files


Dec 23, 2020 3:06 PM in response to oriolbcn73

oriolbcn73 Said:

"mac OS Big Sur Just updated to Big Sur, and when trying to make changes in the System Preferences, the admin password doesn't work. (Can't unlock the preferences). It does work though, when accessing the computer. Solutions?"

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Single Out this User:

Create a new user, and see if you get this error. If you do not get it with the new user, then it is likely something misconfigured in this current user giving you the issue.

mac OS Big Sur unable to unlock preferences

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