HT204063: How to Reset NVRAM on your Mac

Learn about How to Reset NVRAM on your Mac
HPFSTech

Q: NVRAM

when i try the NVRAM Reset on my mac i get to a padlock log screen. i do not have the "bios password or firmware password" for this unit. i have also tried the method of changing the configuration in some way before using the CMD-ALT-P-R

iMac with Retina 5K display

Posted on Feb 22, 2016 5:48 AM

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Q: NVRAM

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  • by joe_7399,

    joe_7399 joe_7399 Feb 23, 2016 8:24 AM in response to HPFSTech
    Community Specialists
    Feb 23, 2016 8:24 AM in response to HPFSTech

    Hi HPFSTech,

     

    Thanks for using the Apple Support Communities!

     

    I understand that when restarting your Mac while performing an NVRAM reset, the Mac boots to a screen with a padlock. Does this only happen when you reset NVRAM? Can you still log in after performing a normal restart?

     

    If you are unable to log in at all, it does sound like this Mac has a firmware password set. The following article explains how to move forward if you do not know the password. 

     

    If you forget your firmware password

    If you can't remember the password you set using the Firmware Password Utility or Find My Mac, schedule a service appointment with an Apple Retail Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider. Bring your proof of purchase (original receipt or invoice) with you. If you plan to visit an Apple Retail Store, make a reservation (available only in some countries).

     

    Use a firmware password on your Mac - Apple Support

     

    Best!

  • by HPFSTech,

    HPFSTech HPFSTech Feb 23, 2016 8:36 AM in response to joe_7399
    Level 1 (0 points)
    Feb 23, 2016 8:36 AM in response to joe_7399


    hi joe

     

    this does not happen when restarting my mac. this only happens after the combination I spoke off pressing the keys CMD-ALT-P-R. the padlock appears suggesting that the NVRAM reset has not occurred and that there is a firmware password in place that is preventing this from happening,

     

    my understanding is there is a method of removed a dim (ie changing the macs configuration) then after 5 mins powering up the unit with the sequence CMD-ALT-P-R. however this is not working. is there any other physical methods that I can use to reset the NVRAM or reset the firmware password. ?

     

    Thanks in advance

  • by joe_7399,

    joe_7399 joe_7399 Feb 23, 2016 8:56 AM in response to HPFSTech
    Community Specialists
    Feb 23, 2016 8:56 AM in response to HPFSTech

    Thank you for replying. 

     

    At this point in the process, I would suggest contacting AppleCare directly. Contacting Apple Support will allow us to look further into this specific situation and provide you the best support possible. 

     

    Contact Apple Support - Apple Support

     

    Have a great day

  • by HPFSTech,

    HPFSTech HPFSTech Feb 23, 2016 9:03 AM in response to joe_7399
    Level 1 (0 points)
    Feb 23, 2016 9:03 AM in response to joe_7399