Get Started for Free
Here is everything you need to know about how to and get your machine back in working order. What is an EFI Password?
How to Unlock EFI Passwords: A Comprehensive Guide to Regaining Control of Your Mac
You’ll need to visit an Apple Authorized Service Provider or an Apple Store.
This carries a high risk of "bricking" your motherboard if the firmware file is corrupted or the chip is damaged during the process. Prevention: The Best Cure
To avoid this situation in the future, consider using instead of a firmware password. FileVault encrypts your data but allows for easier password recovery via your Apple ID or a recovery key.
For modern Macs (M1/M2/M3 chips or Intel Macs with the T2 security chip), the process has changed. You cannot bypass these by swapping RAM or using older software exploits. Connect the locked Mac to another Mac using a USB-C cable. Launch on the working Mac. Put the locked Mac into DFU Mode .
The EFI password is a security measure at the hardware level. It blocks the use of keyboard shortcuts like Option (⌥) to select a boot disk, Command (⌘) + R for Recovery Mode, or T for Target Disk Mode. Because it resides in the firmware, simply wiping your hard drive won't remove it. Method 1: The Official Apple Route (Most Reliable)
Power it back on and immediately hold to reset the PRAM/NVRAM. Let the Mac chime three times, then let go of the keys.
If you are using an older Mac (pre-2012) that has removable RAM slots, there is a legendary hardware "glitch" that allows you to reset the EFI. Power off the Mac and remove one of the RAM modules.
If you must use an EFI password, store it in a physical safe or a digital password manager that is not stored exclusively on that Mac.
Here is everything you need to know about how to and get your machine back in working order. What is an EFI Password?
How to Unlock EFI Passwords: A Comprehensive Guide to Regaining Control of Your Mac
You’ll need to visit an Apple Authorized Service Provider or an Apple Store.
This carries a high risk of "bricking" your motherboard if the firmware file is corrupted or the chip is damaged during the process. Prevention: The Best Cure
To avoid this situation in the future, consider using instead of a firmware password. FileVault encrypts your data but allows for easier password recovery via your Apple ID or a recovery key.
For modern Macs (M1/M2/M3 chips or Intel Macs with the T2 security chip), the process has changed. You cannot bypass these by swapping RAM or using older software exploits. Connect the locked Mac to another Mac using a USB-C cable. Launch on the working Mac. Put the locked Mac into DFU Mode .
The EFI password is a security measure at the hardware level. It blocks the use of keyboard shortcuts like Option (⌥) to select a boot disk, Command (⌘) + R for Recovery Mode, or T for Target Disk Mode. Because it resides in the firmware, simply wiping your hard drive won't remove it. Method 1: The Official Apple Route (Most Reliable)
Power it back on and immediately hold to reset the PRAM/NVRAM. Let the Mac chime three times, then let go of the keys.
If you are using an older Mac (pre-2012) that has removable RAM slots, there is a legendary hardware "glitch" that allows you to reset the EFI. Power off the Mac and remove one of the RAM modules.
If you must use an EFI password, store it in a physical safe or a digital password manager that is not stored exclusively on that Mac.