In the cases where you've forgotten your iPad password or need to change it for security reasons, Apple offers two ways to reset it. Show
If you remember your current passcode, the process is relatively easy and can be done by accessing the device's Settings app and changing it through the Passcode menu. In the case that you can't remember the code or you've disabled your iPad after too many incorrect attempts, you'll have to reset the entire device to remove the old passcode and establish a new one. Resetting the iPad means deleting all of its data. If you've backed up your iPad to iCloud or a computer, you can just restore it — if you haven't backed it up, however, this means losing your photos, apps, songs, and more. But it's the only way to access a locked iPad that you don't have the passcode for. In other words, it's always a good idea to have a backup. How to reset your passcode if you know the passcode1. Unlock your iPad using your current passcode or, depending on your iPad model, use Touch ID or Face ID. 2. Go to the Settings app, which looks like a gray gear. 3. Scroll down to "Passcode," which on newer devices may be called "Touch ID & Passcode" or "Face ID & Passcode." 4. Enter your current passcode and scroll down to "Change Passcode." 5. Enter your current passcode again. 6. You can now enter your new 6-Digit Numeric passcode, or click on "Passcode Options" to set a Custom Alphanumeric Code, Custom Numeric Code, or the classic 4-Digit Numeric Code. 7. Enter your passcode twice to confirm. How to reset your iPad's passcode if you don't know the passcodeIn this case, you'll need to reset the iPad. There are various ways to do this. Using a computer1. Turn off your iPad, and then connect your iPad to a computer. If you're using a PC, make sure that iTunes is installed — you'll find the settings menu for your iPad there. On a Mac, you'll use the Finder. 2. Once the iPad is connected, put it into Recovery Mode.
3. In iTunes or the Finder, you'll be presented with a message saying that there's an issue with the iPad, and it needs to be updated or restored. Click "Restore." Now, wait. All the data will be cleared from your iPad, and it'll be reset to factory default conditions. Once it's done, you can turn it back on and restore your data from a backup — assuming you have a backup. During this process, create a new passcode that you'll remember. Using your iCloud account1. Go to iCloud.com and log in to your iCloud account. 2. Click on "Find My" or "Find My iPhone." At the top of the screen, click "All Devices," and select your iPad. 3. Click "Erase iPad." 4. It will warn you that all your data will be lost, and you won't be able to track the device anymore. Click "Erase." 5. Your device will be remotely accessed and reset to factory settings. You can now set it up as a new iPad, or restore it from a backup that you've saved to iCloud. During this process, create a new passcode that you'll remember. Related coverage from Tech Reference:
Christine Kopaczewski Christine Kopaczewski is a Philadelphia-based freelance lifestyle writer. When she’s not writing, she’s playing with her Scottish Terrier puppy or exploring the east coast with her British husband. Her previous work has been published by Good Housekeeping, PureWow, and Yahoo. |