You can reset a locked iPad using a PC or Mac using this method
Prerequisites: A PC with iTunes installed or a Mac
Difficulty Level: Member • Nerd • Platypus
Estimated Time: 15 minutes
Expected Outcome: The locked iPad will be reset
Tools Required: A lighting cable and a PC with iTunes installed or a Mac
Step 1: Make sure that you have a computer (Mac or PC)
This process requires a Mac or PC. If you're using a PC, make sure that it has Windows 8 or later, and that iTunes is installed. You also need the cable that came with your iPad, or another compatible cable, to connect your iPad to the computer.
If you don't have a computer and you can't borrow one, you can come to the Neighborhood Nerds Member Center for help.
Step 2: Turn off and unplug your iPad
- Unplug your iPad from the computer if it’s connected.
- Turn off your iPad using the method for your iPad model
- If your iPad doesn't have a Home button: Press and hold one of the volume buttons and the top button at the same time until the power off slider appears.
- If your iPad has a Home button: Press and hold the top button until the power off slider appears.
- Drag the slider to turn off your iPad, then wait a minute to make sure that it turns off completely.
Step 3: Put your iPad in recovery mode
- Get ready by finding the button on your iPad that you'll need to hold in the next step:
- iPad models that don't have a Home button use the top button.
- iPad models that have a Home button use the Home button.
- Press and hold the correct button for your iPad while immediately connecting your iPad to the computer. Don't let go of the button.
- Keep holding the button until you see the recovery mode screen on your iPad, then let go.
If you see the passcode screen, you need to turn off your iPad and start again.
If you can’t get your iPad to show the recovery mode screen and you need help, contact Apple Support.
Step 4: Restore your iPad
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- Locate your iPad in the Finder or in iTunes on the computer that it’s connected to. (Learn how to find your connected iPad.)
- Choose Restore when you see the option to Restore or Update. Your computer downloads software for your iPad and begins the restore process. If the download takes more than 15 minutes and your device exits the recovery mode screen, let the download finish, then turn off your iPad and start again.
- Wait for the process to finish.
- Disconnect your iPad from the computer, then set up and use your iPad.
