How do I wipe my IMAC without logging in?

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How do I wipe my IMAC without logging in

Here is a brief overview of the steps to wipe an iMac when you can’t log in:

Preparation

Before wiping the iMac, you’ll need to:

  • Back up any important data
  • Have the original install discs or a bootable USB installer for the version of OS X you want to install
  • Know the admin password for the iMac – if you don’t know it, you may need to reset it

Starting the Wipe Process

To wipe the iMac:

  1. Boot into Recovery Mode by holding Command + R on startup
  2. Use Disk Utility to erase the hard drive, selecting Mac OS Extended format
  3. Quit Disk Utility and reinstall OS X from the installer discs or USB
  4. Follow the prompts to install a fresh version of OS X

Resetting Admin Password

If you don’t know the admin password, you can reset it from Recovery Mode:

  1. Boot into Recovery Mode
  2. Open Terminal from the Utilities menu
  3. Run the password reset command:
    passwd [username]
  4. Enter a new password twice
  5. Restart and login with new password

Conclusion

Wiping an iMac without logging in requires booting into Recovery Mode, erasing the hard drive with Disk Utility, and reinstalling OS X. If you don’t know the admin password, you can reset it via Terminal in Recovery Mode.

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