I recently ran into a problem... I cannot log into my MacBook Pro. I know my password, but it doesn't work. I enter it, press Enter, and then it looks like the machine is loggin me in - but them dumps me back at the login screen. I've reset the password. I've repaired the disc through RecoveryHD. All to no avail. Any ideas?
Thanks in advance.
MacBook Pro (17-inch Late 2011), OS X Mountain Lion (10.8.5)
Hi h8inmyMBP,
Thanks for visiting Apple Support Communities.
If you can't log in to your user account, try logging in with your login items disabled:
OS X Mountain Lion: Open items automatically when you log in
http://support.apple.com/kb/PH11177
Temporarily prevent items from opening automatically when you log in
- If you see the login window, press the Shift key while you click the Log In button, and then release the Shift key when you see the Dock.
- If you don’t see the login window, start your computer, hold down the Shift key when you see the progress bar in the startup window, and then release the Shift key after your desktop appears.
If you're able to log in with this method, see the steps in the article above to "Permanently prevent an item from opening automatically when you log in."
If you're not able to log in with the above method, try booting into safe mode next:
Mac OS X: What is Safe Boot, Safe Mode?
http://support.apple.com/kb/ht1564
Mac OS X: Starting up in Safe Mode
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1455
Best,
Jeremy
Jeremy,
Thank you very much for your response.
I couldn't try what you suggested because I already reinstalled the OS. There are so many hidden and unknown "tricks" with Mac OS like the ones you listed above - where do you find these?
I'm obviously a noob to Mac systems; I'm a longtime user of Windows operating systems (late 80's!) but thought I'd jump on the bandwagon and get a MacBook Pro about a year ago. I figured once I used the Mac OS for a while I would get used to it and end up loving it, but unfortunately I haven't been able to get accustomed to it yet in the least. I've given myself until the end of the year, and then my MBP gets donated if I still don't "get it." Is there one place or reference manual or something that anyone can suggest that includes all the tips and tricks, and might help me love my MBP and keep it?
Thanks again, Jeremy!
Kevin
Hi Kevin,
I'm happy to help!
If you haven't already, I'd definitely recommend bookmarking this page for reference:
http://www.apple.com/support/macbasics/pctomac/
It has links to several articles that can help overcome some of the major differences that you encounter when switching from PC to Mac, as well as a page with many other useful keyboard shortcuts.
Best,
Jeremy
Thanks, Jeremy!
I am having this exact same issue. I was installing the updates and while restarting the mac, this thing happened. Tried holding shift key and leaving it did not work. I am using MBP mid 2010. Any suggestions.
Hi swapna81,
I reinstalled my OS to resolve this. It wasn't the end of the world to do that, but I hope someone is able to help you find a less drastic solution. By the way, my problem started after installing updates as well.
hi h8inmyMBP! i am currently facing the same issues as you... However, when you reinstall the OS, is the data in your mac been erased or it remained as it is? Thanks a lot for your help!!!
Hi valenlks,
I don't fully recall, and I've since ditched my MacBook for a different computer, but I believe that the data was retained... I would consult someone who may have a concrete answer to this before reinstalling the OS, or I would back it up first. Or both!
I experienced this problem and was able to resolve the issue by disconnecting my Thunderbolt display. Just adding my experience here so it may help someone else in the future.
Steps that caused the problem:
At this point, when I attempted to log into my main account, it would act as if it were going to log in, but would kick me back out to the login screen. I was, however, able to log into the Guest account. Rebooting didn't resolve the issue.
Resolution:
cannot login to macbook pro
