Remote macOS password reset stays pending when Mac is offline at loginSolved

Hello,

Thanks for reaching out to Hexnode Connect.

To answer your first question: No, the remote password reset command will not execute while the Mac is offline. Hexnode remote actions for macOS depend entirely on the Apple Push Notification service (APNs) to wake and communicate with the device. Without an active internet connection, any password reset command you send from the portal will remain queued in a “Pending” state until the Mac comes back online.

If you want the remote command to process, the easiest workaround is to plug the Mac into a live network using a USB-C to Ethernet adapter. Once connected, the queued command will deliver.

However, since you mentioned an offline fix, you can absolutely reset the password locally using macOS Recovery Mode. This bypasses the need for Hexnode or network connectivity entirely:

1. Shut down the Mac completely.
2. Boot into Recovery Mode:
   1. Apple Silicon: Press and hold the power button until the startup options appear.
   2. Intel-based: Power on the Mac and immediately hold Command (⌘) + R until the Apple logo appears.
3. Once the macOS Recovery screen loads, go to the top menu bar and select Utilities > Terminal.
4. Type resetpassword and press Return.
5. The Password Reset window will appear. Simply select the target user account, configure the new password, and restart the Mac.

This is the recommended and most efficient workaround when a device is completely offline at the login screen.

I hope this helps get your user back into their device! Feel free to reach out if you have any more doubts or need further assistance.

Best regards,
George,
Hexnode UEM