Forgetting your iPad password can be a hassle. You can easily get locked out, as you’re also limited in how many times you can enter different four- and six-digit combinations. Once this limit is reached, your iPad will be disabled.
Even if you’re very careful not to abuse restrictions, your iPad will still be unusable if you forget your passcode. In this case, your only option is to put your iPad into recovery mode using a PC or Mac and then reset it.
Keep in mind that this will delete everything on your iPad, from data to settings preferences and even passwords. It makes your device look like new again, allowing you to set it up from scratch. If you have a recent backup that you can use to restore your data and settings, there’s no need to worry. If you don’t, your only recourse is to proceed with the reset and then restore everything saved in iCloud.
If you are using a PC to perform this procedure, make sure it has 1) Windows 10 or higher and 2) the Apple device app or iTunes installed. You’ll also need a cable to connect your iPad to your computer.
Start by turning off your iPad.Here’s a detailed guide How to turn off your iPad Regardless of its model.
Then, put the iPad into recovery mode. If you are using a Mac, first find out which MacOS you are using. If you’re using macOS Catalina or later, open a Finder window. If you are using macOS Mojave or earlier, open iTunes. If iTunes is open, close it and reopen it. If you are using a PC, open the Apple device app or iTunes.
Then, connect the iPad to the computer via USB cable. Once connected, press the following buttons depending on your iPad model. If your iPad is a 2017 or earlier iPad Pro, or a 2019 or earlier iPad Air, iPad Mini, or standard iPad, it will have a Home button.
If your iPad doesn’t have a Home button, press and quickly release the volume button closest to the top button, then press and quickly release the volume button furthest from the top button, then hold the top button. If your iPad has a Home button, press and hold the Home button and the top (or side) button at the same time. Continue holding until you see the recovery mode screen on your iPad. Release when you see it.
If you’re not sure which button is which, this Apple Support Guide can help.
The last step is to restore your iPad. To do this, find your device in Finder, iTunes, or the Apple device app on the connected computer. You will see the option “Restore” or “Update”. Select Restore.
It will take approximately 15 minutes for your computer to download the software for iPad and begin the recovery process. Wait for it to complete, and when it’s done, disconnect your iPad from your computer. You should now be able to use your iPad.
Need more help?
How to restore iPad to factory settings
How to reset your iPad
How to restart your iPad
How to take a screenshot on iPad
How to connect Apple Pencil to iPad
Want more of Gizmodo’s consumer electronics picks?Check out our guide best mobile phone, best laptop, best tvand best headphones.If you want to know about the next big thing, check out our guide Everything we know about the iPhone 16.