Can't unlock settings in System Preferences - stuck on authenticating after entering admin credentials

Question

Level 1

141 points

Can't unlock settings in System Preferences - stuck on authenticating after entering admin credentials

I have been troubleshooting this issue for a few days. I am an admin using High Sierra 10.13.3 and when I attempt to unlock the "click the lock to make changes" icon, System Preferences will hang on "authenticating" progressing no further. I have: - Attempted safe mode - Attempted using another admin account - Reset SMC and NVRAM/PRAM Apple support instructed to me to reinstall macOS using Recovery Mode. Hold CMD+R and startup the computer to boot into recovery mode. Then select reinstall macOS. This is the only solution I have found.

MacBook Pro, macOS Sierra (10.12.6)

Posted on Jan 31, 2018 8:15 AM

Reply

Answer 1

Old Toad

Level 10

215,676 points

Jan 31, 2018 10:04 AM in response to lonestarry

To rule out it's not some 3rd party software that has caused this issue download and run Etrecheck. Copy and paste the results into your reply. Etrecheck is a diagnostic tool that was developed by one of the most respected users here in the ASC and recommended by Apple Support to provide a snapshot of the system and help identify the more obvious culprits that can adversely affect a Mac's performance.

Reply

Answer 2

lonestarry Author

Level 1

141 points

Jan 31, 2018 9:59 AM in response to Old Toad

Bummer, glad I know now, about the 15 minutes cut-off now. thanks. Just attempted single user mode to create a new admin user and tested. Issue persists. I'm on hold with support while they are researching and will update again. I'm afraid the worst is coming. Full erase and reinstall.... and hours of reloading users and apps.

Reply

Answer 3

lonestarry Author

Level 1

141 points

Jan 31, 2018 9:36 AM in response to Stuart423

yes, i did try this step. I also tried resetting my password using terminal using recovery mode. Issue still persists.

Reply

Answer 4

lonestarry Author

Level 1

141 points

Jan 31, 2018 9:38 AM in response to lonestarry

Apologies, I spoke too soon and the reinstall did not resolve the issue. I have trying to edit the OP, but the form is telling me "You cannot edit this post"

Reply

Answer 5

Old Toad

Level 10

215,676 points

Jan 31, 2018 9:53 AM in response to lonestarry

We only have 15 minutes to make changes to a post.

Reply

Answer 6

lonestarry Author

Level 1

141 points

Jan 31, 2018 10:41 AM in response to lonestarry

Apple support instructed me to run the Data Capture tool for submission to engineering. I have a callback scheduled for a couple days from now and will report back.

Reply

Answer 7

Stuart423

Level 6

9,264 points

Jan 31, 2018 8:19 AM in response to lonestarry

Can you open Users & Groups? ( system preferences > users & groups )

If so, you might try changing your password. The system might be having an issue with your current password. Here's how: Change or reset the password of a macOS user account - Apple Support

Reply

Can't unlock settings in System Preferences - stuck on authenticating after entering admin credentials

Similar questions