Power User Monday Tip of the Week

I've Locked My Keys In The Car

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Brought to you by: James Huff

Have you set-up an OS X password or Open Firmware password on a now out-of-use computer? Have you found some reason to go back to it, but now realize that you've been locked out because you can't remember what password you've used? Here's a quick round-up of two useful solutions.

If you've forgotten your OS X password, just reboot from your OS X install CD, go to the "Installer" menu and choose "Reset Password". At this point, set your password to something easy as this won't change your keychain password. Now, return to your OS X and login triumphantly. Make your way to the "Accounts" System Preference pane. Now, change your password to your desired password. This will also change your keychain password.

If you've forgotten your Open Firmware password, just shut-down your computer, remove one RAM module and zap the PRAM 3 times (restart holding down command-option-P-R until you hear the start tone 3 times). The Open Firmware security is now disabled. Feel free to re-enable it and set a new password.

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