MacBook Air Activation Lock: Lost 28-character key

on my MacBook air there is Activation Lock and i am not able recover my apple id because there were 28 character key and I lost that key that’s why i am not able to use that id and my MacBook I want to use that one


Posted on Feb 10, 2026 12:53 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Feb 10, 2026 2:23 AM

Set up a recovery key for your Apple Account - Apple Support


"If you don't know your account password and have lost or otherwise don't have a trusted device, you need your recovery key to regain access to your Apple Account. If you can't provide your recovery key, you’ll be locked out of your account permanently."


It sounds to me like, by setting up a recovery key, you have prevented Apple from being able to help you regain access to the Apple Account. Without the password to that account, or the recovery key, there isn't any way to remove Activation Lock yourself.


If you have proof of original purchase, from Apple or an Apple Authorized Reseller, that is satisfactory to Apple, it might be possible to file an Activation Lock support request.


How to remove Activation Lock - Apple Support


Otherwise, it sounds like you have locked yourself out of the Mac permanently.

3 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Feb 10, 2026 2:23 AM in response to tonymarkunit

Set up a recovery key for your Apple Account - Apple Support


"If you don't know your account password and have lost or otherwise don't have a trusted device, you need your recovery key to regain access to your Apple Account. If you can't provide your recovery key, you’ll be locked out of your account permanently."


It sounds to me like, by setting up a recovery key, you have prevented Apple from being able to help you regain access to the Apple Account. Without the password to that account, or the recovery key, there isn't any way to remove Activation Lock yourself.


If you have proof of original purchase, from Apple or an Apple Authorized Reseller, that is satisfactory to Apple, it might be possible to file an Activation Lock support request.


How to remove Activation Lock - Apple Support


Otherwise, it sounds like you have locked yourself out of the Mac permanently.

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

MacBook Air Activation Lock: Lost 28-character key

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.