Since Apple began installing energy-efficient Bluetooth modules in Macs, third-party developers have been looking for a way to implement convenient and reliable protection OS X by creating a pair between a computer and a smartphone. This is how applications appeared that can automatically lock and unlock a Mac when the user approaches or moves away from the iPhone, as well as other options varying degrees practicality and reliability.
One of best solutions to protect personal data, it turned out to be the MacID application, which recently received a major update to version 1.3 and is available in the App Store at a discount, priced at only 59 rubles. Since the first version of MacID, this application has attracted attention because in an unusual way unlocking a computer using a fingerprint scanner on a smartphone. And in new version Touch ID has become an even better password replacement on OS X.
Basically, what it all comes down to is that you need to install the MacID application on one or more Mac computers, and also mobile devices with Touch ID, which you will use to unlock. After this, you need to connect them to each other via Bluetooth and allow the MacID application to use the fingerprint. Now, as soon as you leave the computer with your smartphone, it will automatically lock and unlock when the user returns. In addition, it is possible to do all this manually.
Among the additional options, it is worth noting notifications on the lock screen about events occurring on the computer. In particular, you can see that the computer was locked and cancel this action by swiping on the banner, and also see if someone tried to disable the lock screen on the Mac in your absence. Owners of iOS 9 devices can also use Spotlight to quickly access their computer's unlock button, as search now also works within apps. Alternatively, you can add a MacID widget to the notification shade. Finally, iPhone 6s or 6s Plus owners can use 3D Touch to trigger additional actions from the MacID icon, as well as within the application. In addition, MacID has a native application for Apple Watch running watchOS 2.0 and later.
Forgetting a password is a situation in which any of us has ever found ourselves. And if you lost your account password in social network in 2-3 minutes it is restored in email or mobile phone, the password for an account in Windows OS can be recovered in half an hour, then with Apple devices and operating system MacOX is much more complicated.
The fact is that Apple computers have very high level protection. A password can be set not only on the software, but also on the motherboard itself, blocking the choice of boot device. This is the so-called firmware password - a password set on the Extensible Firmware Interface (EFI) - a more powerful analogue of the BIOS, which is used in Apple devices.
Let's demonstrate with an example. This picture shows the password entry window for your ICloud account:
And this one shows the EFI password entry field:
EFI Password can be set on all iMac, MacBook, MacBook Pro.
1. iMac 21" A1311
3. Macbook Pro 17" A1297
4. Macbook Pro 15" A1286
5. Macbook Pro 13" A1278
6. Macbook Air 11" A1370, A1465
7. Macbook Air 13" A1369, A1466
8. Macbook Pro 15" A1398 with Retina display
9. MacBook Pro 13" A1425 with retina display
10. All Mac Mini
So, how do you reset your EFI password and unlock your MacBook or other Apple computer?
Most the right way– Contact Apple Support. The company's certified technicians will help solve the problem. But there is not always time and desire for this.
Most users prefer to solve such problems themselves.
The most common and effective method Resetting the password on EFI is as follows:
1. You need to change the amount of computer memory. Remove one memory stick or swap the memory sticks.
- To remove the memory stick from your MacBook, you will need a small Phillips screwdriver and a ruler.
- Using a screwdriver, unscrew the screws that hold the back cover of the laptop;
- Disconnect the battery from motherboard. This can be done conveniently and safely using a plastic ruler.
- Carefully push apart the latches that hold the memory modules in place and carefully remove 1 module.
- Reconnect the battery and screw on the laptop lid.
2. Turn on your computer. When turning it on, hold down the key combination: “cmd+alt+p+r”. Repeat these steps several times if necessary.
After this, the password should be reset.
Good luck in restoring access to your computer! Keep your passwords in a safe place and don't forget them!
The macOS feature that lets you unlock your Mac with Apple Watch provides security and convenience. However, a problem may arise if the feature stops working properly.
If unlocking your Mac using Apple Watch isn't working for you, here are some solutions you can try.
The most common problem with this feature is that the light spins for a couple of seconds but doesn't unlock the Mac and ends up popping up a sign asking for a password. In this situation, solution #8 is suitable. You may have other cases, but one of the solutions should definitely help.
How to fix unlocking problemsMac by usingApple Watch
Solution 1: Make sure you entered your password correctlyMac when loading.
After you enable Apple Watch unlock, you will still have to enter your passcode if you restart your Mac. This is not a bug, it is a security measure designed specifically. Every time you restart your computer, you will first have to enter the password manually. Then, if your Mac goes to sleep, you can unlock it using your Apple Watch.
Solution 2: Make sure you entered your password correctlyApple Watch.
Like your Mac password, you'll also have to enter your Apple Watch password manually first. This is also a security measure designed to ensure that no one else can unlock your Mac.
Solution 3: Turn the feature on and off.
On a Mac, go to > System Preferences > Safety. Select a tab Basic, then remove and check the box next to AllowApple Watch unlockMac.
Solution 4:Make sure you are logged in to the same account on both devices.
On a Mac, go to > System Preferences > iCloud and check that account here was the same as on the Apple Watch in the Watch app > General > Accounts.
If the account does not match, you will not be able to use the unlock feature.
Solution 5: Make sure Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are turned on on your Mac.
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi must be turned on to transfer information. If they're turned off, Apple Watch won't be able to connect to your Mac to unlock it.
Solution 6: Check thatMac function disabledInternet Sharing
On a Mac, go to > System Preferences > Sharing and make sure sharing is turned off.
Solution 7: Check thatApple Watch was no more than an arm's length away fromMac.
This is understandable, but you still have to be near the Mac to unlock it for hours.
Solution 8: reboot All.
The Touch ID fingerprint sensor on the iPhone starting with the 5S made a lot of noise in its time. Competitors like Samsung immediately began implementing similar technology in their smartphones. But while the Koreans were doing so-so, the fingerprint sensor acquired new capabilities and began to appear in other products of the company. And while the race is in full swing, it’s time for Cupertino residents to think about introducing technology into Mac. Agree, it would be very convenient not to enter a password on your laptop every time, but simply put your finger to unlock it. The developers of the FingerKey app thought the same thing.
Of course, it's only a matter of time before Touch ID appears on Mac computers. Most likely, this technology will first be implemented in laptops, and only then in desktop computers, since the security of data storage on portable devices is what consumers care about most. If your iMac is at home, then usually all family members have access to it at once. But when it comes to a laptop, then everything is not so simple. Whether you take your computer with you on a business trip or a trip, leaving it without a password is not the best best option. Especially if it is stored on it important information. Naturally, situations are different, but most users would prefer the sensor to appear in laptops first. If only they had a choice.
The FingerKey application is designed to solve a similar problem of unlocking your computer, which will help you unlock your Mac using the Touch ID scanner on your iPhone or iPad. But please note that for correct operation, in addition to the smartphone itself with Touch ID, your computer must have Bluetooth version 4 installed.
As you already understand, for such machinations and the interaction of devices with each other, you need not only an application for iOS, but also for Mac. Download both and start setting up. It is extremely simple: on OS X, click the “Add new FingerKey” button, and on iOS, click the icon with the “plus” sign. The devices will automatically find each other and create a pair. That's it, you can use it!
In order not to go into your smartphone and open the application every time, the developers made a special widget. Clicking on it will take you to an application that will unlock your computer. And there are a couple of inconveniences here.
Firstly, if you use a fingerprint scanner to unlock your smartphone, going into the application itself will require you to place your finger on the sensor a second time. Therefore, to avoid unnecessary problems, disable Touch ID authentication in the settings if you did this from the very beginning.
And secondly, a computer in sleep mode, unfortunately, will not respond to the application in any way. It's just a fact that you have to come to terms with.
However, it is impossible not to recognize the flawless operation of the application. Everything works like clockwork. The only problem I had after installing the apps was the computer refusing to go into sleep mode. Why this happened is a mystery, but after removing a bunch of devices and adding them again, everything worked without problems.
In App Store app costs only 66 rubles, which is quite cheap compared to the Knock, which caused a stir and did not work correctly; The price for an interesting analogue, and even cheaper, is undoubtedly pleasing.
Fair, not overpriced and not underestimated. There should be prices on the Service website. Necessarily! without asterisks, clear and detailed, where technically possible - as accurate and concise as possible.
If spare parts are available, up to 85% of complex repairs can be completed in 1-2 days. Modular repairs require much less time. The website shows the approximate duration of any repair.
Warranty and responsibility
A guarantee must be given for any repairs. Everything is described on the website and in the documents. The guarantee is self-confidence and respect for you. A 3-6 month warranty is good and sufficient. It is needed to check quality and hidden defects that cannot be detected immediately. You see honest and realistic terms (not 3 years), you can be sure that they will help you.
Half the success in Apple repair is the quality and reliability of spare parts, so a good service works with suppliers directly, there are always several reliable channels and your own warehouse with proven spare parts for current models, so you don’t have to waste extra time.
Free diagnostics
This is very important and has already become a rule of good manners for the service center. Diagnostics is the most difficult and important part of the repair, but you don't have to pay a penny for it, even if you don't repair the device based on its results.
Service repairs and delivery
Good service We value your time, which is why we offer free shipping. And for the same reason, repairs are carried out only in the workshop of a service center: correctly and according to technology can only be done in a prepared place.
Convenient schedule
If the Service works for you, and not for itself, then it is always open! absolutely. The schedule should be convenient to fit in before and after work. Good service works on weekends and holidays. We are waiting for you and working on your devices every day: 9:00 - 21:00
The reputation of professionals consists of several points
Company age and experience
Reliable and experienced service has been known for a long time.
If a company has been on the market for many years and has managed to establish itself as an expert, people turn to it, write about it, and recommend it. We know what we are talking about, since 98% of incoming devices in the service center are restored.
They trust us and convey complex cases other service centers.
How many masters in areas
If there are always several engineers waiting for you for each type of equipment, you can be sure:
1. there will be no queue (or it will be minimal) - your device will be taken care of right away.
2. you give your Macbook for repair to an expert in the field of Mac repairs. He knows all the secrets of these devices
Technical literacy
If you ask a question, a specialist should answer it as accurately as possible.
So that you can imagine what exactly you need.
They will try to solve the problem. In most cases, from the description you can understand what happened and how to fix the problem.
