Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

How can I remove admin password without a install disk

I bought a used PowerBook G4 with os 10.4.11 and it did not come with a install disk I need to either change the admin password or remove it .

PowerBook, Mac OS X (10.4.10)

Posted on Jan 18, 2012 12:57 PM

Reply
Question marked as Best reply

Posted on Jan 18, 2012 2:20 PM

Here's one method to reset the password without the install disc:


1. boot computer and hold the "apple" key and the "s" key.

2. wait for terminal show

3. release keys

4. type without the quotes: "/sbin/mount -uaw"

5. press enter

6. type without the quotes: "rm /var/db/.applesetupdone

7. press enter

8. type without the quotes: "reboot"

9. press enter


This will let you create a new admin account when you reboot your computer.


Also, without the discs, look at Mac OS X Tip - No Password, No Root, No CD? No Problem.

http://www.macobserver.com/tip/2003/06/16.1.shtml


Here is a way to get around not knowing the admin password on Macs.


To reset your OS X password without an OS X CD you need to enter terminal and create a new admin account:


1. Reboot

2. Hold apple + s down after you hear the chime.

3. When you get text prompt enter in these terminal commands to create a brand new admin account (hitting return after each line):

* mount -uw /

* rm /var/db/.AppleSetupDone

* shutdown -h now

4. After rebooting you should have a brand new admin account. When you login as the new admin you can simply delete the old one and you’re good to go again!


 Cheers, Tom 😉

1 reply
Question marked as Best reply

Jan 18, 2012 2:20 PM in response to Bjwill45

Here's one method to reset the password without the install disc:


1. boot computer and hold the "apple" key and the "s" key.

2. wait for terminal show

3. release keys

4. type without the quotes: "/sbin/mount -uaw"

5. press enter

6. type without the quotes: "rm /var/db/.applesetupdone

7. press enter

8. type without the quotes: "reboot"

9. press enter


This will let you create a new admin account when you reboot your computer.


Also, without the discs, look at Mac OS X Tip - No Password, No Root, No CD? No Problem.

http://www.macobserver.com/tip/2003/06/16.1.shtml


Here is a way to get around not knowing the admin password on Macs.


To reset your OS X password without an OS X CD you need to enter terminal and create a new admin account:


1. Reboot

2. Hold apple + s down after you hear the chime.

3. When you get text prompt enter in these terminal commands to create a brand new admin account (hitting return after each line):

* mount -uw /

* rm /var/db/.AppleSetupDone

* shutdown -h now

4. After rebooting you should have a brand new admin account. When you login as the new admin you can simply delete the old one and you’re good to go again!


 Cheers, Tom 😉

How can I remove admin password without a install disk

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