A locked iPad — maybe a child’s, maybe one you only use occasionally — flashing “iPad Unavailable” is a common headache. As with the iPhone, Apple won’t let you in without erasing it, which is the trade-off that keeps the device secure. We at GetMyPassword show you how to reset a forgotten iPad passcode, both straight from the iPad and using a computer, and how a backup turns “erase” into a simple restore.
Reset from the iPad itself (iPadOS 17 and later)
If the iPad is on a recent iPadOS and connected to Wi-Fi or cellular, you may not need a computer:
- After several wrong attempts, tap Forgot Passcode? in the corner.
- Tap Start iPad Reset and sign out of your Apple Account.
- Confirm the erase — the iPad wipes and reinstalls iPadOS.
- Set it up again and restore from a backup.
Reset with a Mac or PC
No on-device option, or an older iPad? You’ll need a computer, a cable and about an hour. On Windows, install iTunes or the Apple Devices app first.
- Turn off the iPad: hold the top button and either volume button until the power-off slider appears, then drag it.
- Put it in recovery mode while connecting it to the computer (the exact button depends on the model — follow the on-screen recovery image).
- In Finder (Mac) or iTunes / Apple Devices (PC), select the iPad and choose Restore.
- Wait for the Hello screen, then set up or restore from backup.
Whichever method you use, the iPad is erased — there’s no exception. Your photos and apps come back only from an iCloud or computer backup, so those backups are your real safety net.
Before you set it up again
After the reset, the iPad asks for the Apple Account that was on it (Activation Lock), so make sure you can sign in. The steps are identical to unlocking a phone — see our guide to a forgotten iPhone passcode if you want the same process for your phone. Then pick a passcode you’ll remember, and generate any new account passwords with our password generator.
Frequently asked questions
Can I unlock my iPad without erasing it?
No. Apple requires the iPad to be erased to remove a forgotten passcode. Your data returns only if you have an iCloud or computer backup to restore afterwards.
Do I need a computer to reset my iPad?
Not always. On iPadOS 17 or later, you can erase it directly via the Forgot Passcode? option if it’s online. Older iPads need a Mac or PC and recovery mode.
What if I don’t know the Apple Account password?
Reset it at iforgot.apple.com first, because the iPad needs that account to pass Activation Lock after the erase. Without it, the device can’t be reactivated.