Resetting password for a new hard drive on a used MacBook

Hi, I got a laptop from a (Catholic) school that closed for good … I know weird, how the times they are a changing.


In any case the school folks have no idea what they password is and no way to find out:( So, I'm thinking I'll bite the bullet and install a new hard, will this work and or will it still ask for the password?



[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: Password - New Drive



Posted on Aug 7, 2025 2:05 PM

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Posted on Aug 7, 2025 7:47 PM

Probably not, since a used Mac must be properly configured for sale prior to its new owner taking possession of it. Recent MacBooks do not even have hard disk drives. Replacing the internal storage won't help.


Refer to What to do before you sell, give away, trade in, or recycle your Mac - Apple Support. Those instructions are not optional and must be complied with.

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Aug 7, 2025 7:47 PM in response to Karl Lalemand1

Probably not, since a used Mac must be properly configured for sale prior to its new owner taking possession of it. Recent MacBooks do not even have hard disk drives. Replacing the internal storage won't help.


Refer to What to do before you sell, give away, trade in, or recycle your Mac - Apple Support. Those instructions are not optional and must be complied with.

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Resetting password for a new hard drive on a used MacBook

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