lshaeffer Posted August 29, 2016 Share Posted August 29, 2016 A family member passed away and my Great Aunt gave me her son's MacBook Air (Version 10.11. 3) 11inch mid 2011. How do I go about resetting his passwords and making it function as a new computer? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Brian Posted August 30, 2016 Share Posted August 30, 2016 Do you have the existing admin / master password? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lshaeffer Posted August 30, 2016 Author Share Posted August 30, 2016 no Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Brian Posted August 30, 2016 Share Posted August 30, 2016 Hmm... You might want to try holding the option key while booting and see if there is a recovery partition. You'll need to format and re-install the OS. Without the existing password, you are kinda screwed. If there isn't a recovery partition, then you'll need OS install media that's on a Thumbdrive. You then boot off the Thumbdrive and nuke the HD and install the OS. If your Great Aunt can locate the original receipt / proof-of-purchase, you could schedule an appointment with a local Genius Bar at Apple and have them do it for you. Or you might be able to find an Authorized Apple Service repair shop that can provide this service. The reason that it's good to have the receipt, is it makes your situation legitimate, as anyone can bring in a MacBook Air that was stolen looking to have it restored. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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