Member Avatar for torlane

because i dont know or have the password that is already on there. how can i get passed this?

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Short note added after the first post: the replies that mention using the original install media (by and ) are valid for many older iMacs, and ’s caution about a possibly stolen machine is sensible. Below are additional, practical alternatives and important caveats for an iMac G5 that won’t accept a login.

A common, local way to regain admin access without erasing user data is to force the Setup Assistant to run again so you can create a new administrator account. In single‑user mode (older PowerPC Mac workflows) the usual sequence is:

/sbin/mount -uw /
rm /var/db/.AppleSetupDone
reboot

This creates a fresh admin account at next boot; pick a different account name so you don’t overwrite an existing user. This method is widely used for older OS X releases. (apple.stackexchange.com)

Do not rely on that approach if the machine’s home folder was protected with legacy FileVault (per‑user encrypted home). Removing .AppleSetupDone or resetting an account password will not decrypt an encrypted home image — you’ll need the FileVault recovery key or original password to access those files. (support.apple.com)

If the goal is only to recover files, booting the iMac as an external disk (Target Disk Mode) and copying data to another Mac is safer than making account changes. For G5 iMacs this commonly uses FireWire and is a good way to back up before attempting resets; physically removing the drive and connecting it to another machine is another fallback. (support.apple.com)

If attempts to boot from alternate media or Recovery are blocked, a firmware/Open Firmware or other startup password may be set; Apple requires proof of ownership to remove such firmware protection, and a locked/activation screen can indicate the Mac might be lost or stolen — contact the seller, police, or an Apple Authorized Service Provider and bring proof of purchase. If nothing else works, erasing and reinstalling is the last resort. (support.apple.com)

Summary: try the single‑user trick to create a temporary admin (back up first), use Target Disk Mode if you only need files, and if firmware locks or Activation Lock appear, go to Apple/AASP with ownership proof.

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Member Avatar for John A

Insert your install disk, then hold down the 'C' key while starting up to boot from the installer. Choose your language, and under the 'utilities' menu there should be an option to reset the administrator password.

commented: Correct information and to the point. +2
Member Avatar for jbennet

Find out the password. If you dont have the password or a cd, beware as it could mean the system is stolen goods.

Member Avatar for andyjc

because i dont know or have the password that is already on there. how can i get passed this?

Boot via your OS CD/DVD and reset Master Password then reboot holding down mouse button until CD/DVD ejects.

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