How to reset password for FileMaker database

FileMaker is a cross-platform relational database application from Claris International, a subsidiary of Apple Inc.

To decrypt FileMaker databases, use Passware FileMaker Key, Passware Kit Standard Plus, or higher editions.

It is a fast, easy-to-use solution for removing password protection from FileMaker files (.FP* and .FMP*). It supports all recent versions of FileMaker, including FileMaker 2023. Files are unprotected instantly, regardless of password strength.

Once Passware FileMaker Key removes password protection from a FileMaker database, it creates an unprotected copy of the database and displays the account name(s). The decryption is instant;  original password(s) are not recoverable.

NOTE: FileMaker Pro Advanced encryption is NOT supported. Try the Demo on your database to verify compatibility.

A “File Patching Required” protection flag in the Item Type means Passware Kit prepares an unprotected copy of the original file by applying a patch. The original file is not affected.

Passware Kit Business, Forensic, and Ultimate support processing multiple databases in batch mode.

Using Passware Kit to decrypt FileMaker database

The steps are as follows:

1. Install and launch Passware Kit. Check the System Requirements. 
   In the "Recover File Password" section, click "Browse for file".
2. Select the FileMaker .FP or .FMP database.
3. Within seconds, Passware Kit displays account name(s) (section #1 on the screenshot below) and creates an unprotected copy of the database (see section #2 on the screenshot below).
   
4. Use one of the account names to open the unprotected copy of the database.
   

Passware Tip: FileMaker may substitute the Account Name with a computer system account name when opening. This may result in the error message “Incorrect name or password.” Use the account names displayed by Passware Kit to open the file.

Troubleshooting

Q: The Admin account password has been reset, but FileMaker shows an error when opening the unprotected file using the Admin account with a blank password.

The Admin account may be disabled. To verify: 

1. Open the unprotected copy of the FileMaker database.
2. Go to File | Manage | Security. 
3. Review the list of users with access privileges.
   Passware Tip: A user with Full Access has the Admin privileges.
    

Q: Can FileMaker Key recover my password?

Passware Kit does not recover original passwords. It removes them, providing access to the database. 

Q: I received an error message: “Failed to reset a password for a Unicode account name”. What should I do?

Passware Kit does not support Unicode account names and cannot process such files.