MacBook Pro - how to get password

[Jux]

I have my brother's MacBook Pro but it is password protected and it won't let me in!

There was an iLok in his desktop (G4) and I tried booting up the laptop with the iLok in place but it hasn't worked. I wondered if you have to boot up holding down a key or combination of keys to get it look at the iLok (on the other hand, it might no be on the iLok at all - I'm still not entirely sure what they're for!)

Does anyone have any idea how I can get in to his machine; I have to look through his files as it is probable that there are files which need to be passed on to others.

There's a utility on the operating system install CD/DVD to reset the administrator password. Once you've done that you can change any other account's password.

So, step one - find the install CD.

support.apple.com/kb/HT1274

I have the install cd, but the m/c can't read the disc, I think it's a hardware though. I guess I'm b*ggered then? (Please tell me there's a fantastic work-around fingers hugely crossed!)

a hardware problem, even

You could make a bootable copy of the install disk on a usb drive / memory stick using the other mac, then boot from that. There should be a 'Disk Utility' application already installed which can do the copying. I think you would have to make a disk image of the CD first, then transfer the disk image to the usb drive.

Thanks, I'll try that. It'll take me a while as I have to clear a space for the G4 and screen first (our house is now waiting for us to rebuild it in a larger size so we can fit all my bro's stuff in, until we can sell it all).

Thanks for your help. Once the house is rebuilt and I've got a corner to set up in, if I have problems with doing this disk image thing, could I call on you - big letters in thread title type thing?

I'd be happy to help if you get stuck.

Just been testing a few ideas and I think you could use Carbon Copy Cloner to directly copy the CD to USB.

Thanks very much. Carbon Copy Cloner looks good and I shall almost certainly give it a go - especially as it's free.