Hack a Mac: Gain Administrator Access, Fast

This procedure, when done correctly, is harmless to the computer and does not modify accounts of normal users. It consists of starting the computer in Single-User Mode and enabling the root (superuser) account. Unless an owner has specifically set a password for the firmware (almost no one does), the process is doable by anyone with access to the computer. The entire process consists of only five commands and may be completed within a few minutes. All commands given in this procedure are to be entered exactly as shown on one line. Although it is a simple process, one should have basic familiarity with command-line operation to complete it successfully.

First, you must start the computer in Single-User Mode, a command-line mode which automatically logs in as the administrator. This function is intended facilitate computer repair. To enter this mode, hold Command [the Apple button] and S keys while booting the computer until a black screen appears. Once you reach a command line, follow the procedure to complete the boot process, enable the root account, and reboot. You only need to remember the last two commands as the system will remind you of the first three from Single-User Mode.

First, check the disk for errors by entering this command:

/sbin/fsck -fy

This is usually a quick process; it will fix any errors it finds. It is not recommended that you skip this step. After it finishes, activate write access to the hard disk by entering:

/sbin/mount -uw /

Now, initiate the main boot process with this command:

sh /etc/rc

This command will start most of the system while remaining in command-line mode. It will generate much text. If it stalls for more than one minute, you may press Control-C to abort it; you should still be able to complete the procedure. After it completes, you will be able to enable the root account by setting its password. Enter:

passwd root

It will prompt you twice for the new password for root. The cursor will not move as you enter the passwords. Now, reboot the computer by entering:

reboot