How do I reset/recover terminal password on Mac mini?

I am trying to use terminal in my Mac mini (2011- Catalina) to download software to make a bootable usb however when asked to put in password , I can't remember. I tried various combinations I could think of but no luck. please help how to recover or reset the same.

-Ash


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Mac mini, macOS 10.15

Posted on Apr 17, 2025 03:18 PM

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5 replies

Apr 17, 2025 03:41 PM in response to ashvin50

Hello,


The terminal password should just be the password you use to log into your mac when you turn it on, assuming you are an administrator.


Enter a password in the Terminal window on Mac – Apple Support (UK)


If you cannot remember your login password, or it doesn't work, you can try resetting it in System Settings -> Users & groups.


Change the login password on Mac – Apple Support (UK)


Hope this helps!


Apr 17, 2025 03:35 PM in response to ashvin50

There is no password specific to the Terminal app on the Mac.


Anytime Terminal prompts you for the password, it expects you to input the password of the particular Mac user account that you are currently logged in to. For most users that account also will be one that has admin privileges on the computer.


When Terminal prompts you for a password, it also will not echo (show you) the password on the screen when you type it. You must simply type the password and press the [enter] key.

Apr 18, 2025 01:36 AM in response to ashvin50

Reset Computer Password  for the Administrator Account Password


Intel Computer


Shutdown the computer 


Restart computer and immediately hold the two keyboard combo Command  r 


If using a Bluetooth Keyboard with Rechargeable Battery - Cable the Keyboard to computer for this unique purpose. Bluetooth Kernel may not load soon enough to execute the 2 keyboard commands 


Top Tool Bar >> Utilities >> Terminal


Type resetpassword as one word and no spaces


Press Return key


Follow the prompts and remember the New Password

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How do I reset/recover terminal password on Mac mini?

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