Locked Out of iPad? 5 Best Solutions Here!
Being locked out of your iPad can be stressful, especially if you rely on it for work, study, or entertainment. Whether you forgot your passcode, entered the wrong code too many times, or inherited a device that still shows the previous owner's Apple ID, the good news is that there are reliable methods to regain access.
This guide provides a comprehensive, up-to-date walkthrough of every workable solution, including official Apple methods and expert-recommended alternatives.
Why Locked Out of My iPad?
iPadOS may lock a device for several reasons, each reflecting a different security or system state.
- Forgotten Passcode: Passcode resets require a full device restore. There is no way to recover a forgotten passcode without erasing your device.
- Too Many Wrong Passcode Attempts: If you enter the wrong passcode too many times, your iPad will display escalating lockout messages ("iPad Unavailable" or "Security Lockout").
- Face ID or Touch ID Stops Working: Biometric issues may eventually force the iPad to request a passcode. If you cannot remember it, you will be locked out.
- Activation Lock Due to Apple ID: If the iPad was factory reset without signing out of Apple ID, it will ask for the Apple ID and password previously associated with the device. This prevents unauthorized use of lost or stolen devices.
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5 Solutions to Fix Locked Out of iPad
Below are the most reliable solutions available today. Select the one that best matches your situation.
Solution 1. Use the "Forgot Passcode?" Option (iOS 15.2+)
For devices running iOS/iPadOS 15.2 or later, Apple offers a built-in way to reset the device directly from the lock screen.
When it works:
1. You know the Apple ID and password associated with the device.
2. The iPad has an active internet connection.
Step 1: Enter the wrong passcode repeatedly until you see "iPad Unavailable" or "Security Lockout".
Step 2: Tap "Forgot Passcode?" at the bottom-right corner of the screen.
Step 3: Choose "Erase iPad".
Step 4: Enter your Apple ID password to confirm.
Step 5: After the device is erased, set it up again as new or restore from an iCloud backup.
Pros:- No computer needed.
- Quick and user-friendly.
Cons:- Requires Apple ID authentication.
- Erases all data on the device.
Solution 2. Unlock iPad with iTunes or Finder
If your iPad does not show the "Forgot Passcode" option, or you cannot connect to the internet, using iTunes (Windows) or Finder (Mac) is a dependable alternative.
When it works:
1. You forgot your passcode.
2. You see "iPad Disabled" or "Connect to iTunes".
3. You can connect the iPad to a computer.
Step 1: Connect the iPad to a computer using a USB cable.
Step 2: Launch iTunes (Windows/macOS Mojave or earlier) or Finder (macOS Catalina+).
Step 3: Put the iPad into Recovery Mode:
- For Face ID models: Press Volume Up → Volume Down → hold Top button.
- For Home button models: Hold the Home + Top/Side button together.
Step 4: When the computer prompts you, select Restore.
Step 5: Wait for the software to download and reinstall iPadOS.
Pros:- Works for almost all disabled iPads.
- Can restore from local iTunes backup afterward.
Cons:- Erases all data.
- Requires a computer and cable.
Solution 3. Unlock Locked iPad via iCloud
If Find My is enabled on your iPad, you can erase it remotely from another device. Similar to restoring an iPad via iTunes, using this method will also remove all data on your device.
When it works:
1. Find My iPad is enabled.
2. You know your Apple ID login details.
Step 1: On a browser, open iCloud official website.
Step 2: Sign in with the Apple ID linked to the locked iPad.
Step 3: Select All Devices > choose your iPad.
Step 4: Click Erase iPad.
Step 5: Set it up again after the process completes.
Pros:- Works even if you don't have the iPad physically with you.
- Easy process.
Cons:- Requires Find My to be enabled beforehand.
- Requires Apple ID access.
Solution 4. Remove Activation Lock (If iPad Is Linked to Someone Else's Apple ID)
If you're stuck at the Activation Lock screen, restoring the device will not help. You need to remove the Apple ID associated with the device. You can ask the previous owner to remove the device from their Apple ID via iCloud remotely.
Alternatively, you can use a professional tool to remove the Activation Lock if you can't contact the previous owner. TunesKit iPhone Unlocker is such a powerful one. It will help you get rid of it and regain access to your device in a few clicks only.
As a multifunctional iOS unlocking program, TunesKit iPhone Unlocker also allow users to unlock iOS screen, remove Apple ID, bypass MDM restrictions, and unlock Screen Time, etc.
When it works:
1. You forgot your passcode and Apple ID.
2. Your iPad is Activation Locked.
3. You can connect the iPad to a computer.
Now, let's see how to unlock it when locked out of iPad by using TunesKit iPhone Unlocker.
Step 1Connect iPad to Computer
Download and install TunesKit iPhone Unlocker on your computer and connect your iPad to the computer. Then, select the "Remove Activation Lock" or "Unlock iOS Screen" option according to your real situation. Then click the "Start" button.
Step 2 Unlock Locked iPad
Now follow the detailed instructions on the program to fix your locked your iPad. If you need to remove Activation Lock, you'll need to jailbreak your device. After unlocking your iPad, you will need to set up your iPad again.
Pros:- Remove iCloud Activation Lock without Apple ID or password.
- Bypass iPad lock screen in a few clicks.
- Easy to use with a user-friendly UI.
Cons:- The program is not free, with a free trial for you.
Solution 5. Contact Apple Support for Verification & Assistance
If none of the above methods work due to hardware issues or forgotten Apple ID credentials, Apple Support can assist after verifying ownership. Remember to bring the serial number, proof of purchase, and the billing information associated with the device.
When it works:
1. You forgot your Apple ID.
2. The device is Activation Locked.
3. Other methods fail.
Pros:- Safe and official.
- Works even with complex lockout situations.
Cons:- Takes more time than self-service options.
FAQs About Locked Out of iPad
Here are some common questions about locked iPad. Check out all the quick answers to them now.
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1. Is there any way to unlock an iPad without losing data?
No, unfortunately not. The passcode is part of the device's hardware encryption. Without the code, the data is unreadable. The only way to save your data is if you have an iCloud backup or a computer backup made before the device was locked.
View More: How to Unlock Disabled iPad Without Losing Data -
2. How do I remove the Activation Lock after resetting?
After you reset the iPad, you might see a screen saying "iPad Locked to Owner". This is different from the passcode; it is an anti-theft feature. You simply need to enter your Apple ID and password to verify you are the owner. If you bought the iPad used and don't know this login, you can use TunesKit iPhone Unlocker to unlock the device.
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3. Can Siri unlock my iPad?
No. There was a security loophole years ago (on iOS 8 through 10) that allowed Siri to bypass the lock screen, but Apple patched this long ago. Any guide claiming Siri can unlock a modern iPad is outdated or misleading.
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4. What if I don't own a computer?
If the Erase iPad option doesn't work and you don't have a computer, you can use iCloud on your another device or on your friend's computer. Alternatively, visit an Apple Store or authorized service provider for help.
Final Thoughts
Being locked out of your iPad can feel overwhelming, but the solutions are clear and dependable when you understand your available options. Whether you know your Apple ID password, can access a computer, or must rely on Apple Support, each scenario has a workable path back into the device.
A reliable iOS unlocking program like TunesKit iPhone Unlocker is quite helpful if you forgot the passcode or Apple ID. It can help you unlock disabled iPad or remove Activation Lock easily.
