imac 21.5" won't go into macos recovery mode

Posted on May 2, 2025 5:23 PM

Top-ranking reply

D.I. Johnson

Level 8

35,783 points

Posted on May 2, 2025 5:51 PM

If you are using a wireless keyboard, try using a USB keyboard.

If you are using the Apple Magic Keyboard, connect the keyboard to the Mac using its charging cable. It should then behave as a USB wired keyboard.

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4 replies

Top-ranking reply

D.I. Johnson

Level 8

35,783 points

May 2, 2025 5:51 PM in response to wbblaszyk

If you are using a wireless keyboard, try using a USB keyboard.

If you are using the Apple Magic Keyboard, connect the keyboard to the Mac using its charging cable. It should then behave as a USB wired keyboard.

KiltedTim

Level 10

228,600 points

May 2, 2025 5:56 PM in response to wbblaszyk

What year iMac is it? Recovery mode wasn't released as a feature until 2010.

wbblaszyk Author

Level 1

6 points

May 2, 2025 6:15 PM in response to wbblaszyk

it is a 2020. I can't remember the password - hint isn't helping and Apple Support could not help me over chat. I have to take it in to the store for a technician to reset it.

May 2, 2025 8:35 PM in response to wbblaszyk

Maybe:

This is Apple’s guidance for resetting your login password:

If you forgot your Mac login password - Apple Support

and if you still can’t reset your password, then see:

If you can’t reset you Mac login password - Apple Support

I guess you're gonna have to use better hints from now on.

You might also consider writing the password down somewhere.

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imac 21.5" won't go into macos recovery mode