Reset iPad settings to their defaults (2024)

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iPad User Guide

You can return your iPad settings to their defaults without erasing your content.

If you want to save your settings, back up iPad before resetting it. For example, if you’re trying to solve a problem but resetting iPad doesn’t help, you might want to restore your previous settings from a backup.

Go to Settings > General> Transfer or Reset iPad> Reset.
WARNING: If you choose the Erase All Content and Settings option, all of your content is removed. See Erase iPad.
Choose an option:
- Reset All Settings: All settings—including network settings, the keyboard dictionary, location settings, privacy settings, and ApplePay cards—are removed or reset to their defaults. No data or media are deleted.
- Reset Network Settings: All network settings are removed. In addition, the device name assigned in Settings> General> About is reset to “iPad,” and manually trusted certificates (such as for websites) are changed to untrusted.
  Cellular data roaming may also be turned off. (See View or change cellular data settings on iPad (Wi-Fi + Cellular models).)
  When you reset network settings, previously used networks and VPN settings that weren’t installed by a configuration profile or mobile device management (MDM) are removed. Wi-Fi is turned off and then back on, disconnecting you from any network you’re on. The Wi-Fi and Ask to Join Networks settings remain turned on.
  To remove VPN settings installed by a configuration profile, go to Settings> General> VPN & Device Management, select the configuration profile, then tap Remove Profile. This also removes other settings and accounts provided by the profile. See Install or remove configuration profiles on iPad.
  To remove network settings installed by MDM, go to Settings> General> VPN & Device Management, select the management, then tap Remove Management. This also removes other settings and certificates provided by MDM. See “Mobile device management (MDM)” in the Deployment Reference for iPhone and iPad.
- Reset Keyboard Dictionary: You add words to the keyboard dictionary by rejecting words iPad suggests as you type. Resetting the keyboard dictionary erases only the words you’ve added.
- Reset Home Screen Layout: Returns the built-in apps to their original layout on the Home Screen.
- Reset Location & Privacy: Resets the location services and privacy settings to their defaults.

If you want to completely erase your iPad, see Use Settings to erase iPad. If you want or need to use a computer to erase your iPad, see Use a computer to erase iPad.

FAQs

Reset iPad settings to their defaults? ›

Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Reset. WARNING: If you choose the Erase All Content and Settings option, all of your content is removed. See Erase iPad.

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How do I reset my iPad without losing everything? ›

In this case, it's time to try a forced restart instead. This is just an alternative method of turning your iPad off and on again. Like the soft restart, this won't delete anything, and no data will be lost.

What happens if I reset to default settings? ›

A factory reset restores a computer, smartphone, etc., back to the state it was in when it left the factory. This includes deleting all the data, apps, and settings the user changed on the device.

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Why is my iPad asking me to reset my password? ›

An issue with the iCloud services can lead to iPad keeps asking for Apple ID password as it is unable to verify it. Go to Apple System Status and look if any of the Apple ID or iCloud services are down.

Does resetting iPad really delete everything? ›

WARNING: If you choose the Erase All Content and Settings option, all of your content is removed. See Erase iPad. Choose an option: Reset All Settings: All settings—including network settings, the keyboard dictionary, location settings, privacy settings, and Apple Pay cards—are removed or reset to their defaults.

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Will I lose everything if I reset my settings? ›

That means that your contacts, photos, messages, and any installed apps will be deleted. Make sure to back everything up, so you don't have to stress about losing those beloved family photos or all of your business contacts. Resetting your Android is super simple.

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Will reset settings erase anything? ›

Important: A factory reset erases all your data from your phone. If you're resetting to fix an issue, we recommend first trying other solutions. Learn how to troubleshoot Android issues. To restore your data after you reset your phone, you must enter security info.

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What is the purpose of default settings? ›

Defaults are important because they provide a starting point that works for most users. They ensure that systems and software are functional and usable right away without requiring extensive setup. Defaults simplify the user experience and serve as a baseline that can be customized to suit individual preferences.

How do I reset my iPad for a new owner? ›

Go back to Settings and tap General > Transfer or Reset [device] > Erase All Content and Settings. If you turned on Find My [device], you might need to enter your Apple ID and password. If your device uses eSIM, choose the option to erase your device and the eSIM profile when asked.

How do I reset my iPad without details? ›

Simply connect your device to a computer with iTunes installed. Put the iPad into recovery mode, then select the "Restore" option in iTunes to reset the device to factory settings. Keep in mind that following the operation steps precisely is crucial to avoid potential bricking issues.

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What is the iPad's default passcode? ›

There is no default passcode in an iPad . Such as iPad pro uses both Touch ID or Face ID, and for that, you are asked to set up a passcode. When you set it up, it is this passcode that your iPad is asking you to enter after it got updated.

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What is the passcode for iPad after factory reset? ›

An iPad that has been reset will not ask for a passcode, but—if Activation Lock has not also been cleared—it will ask for the associated Apple ID and password, when s]starting the iPad setup and re-configuration.

How to clear an iPad to sell? ›

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Will I lose all my data if I restore my iPad? ›

A complete factory restore takes several minutes; do not disconnect your iPad or shut down your computer during the process. Once complete, the iPad will be returned to its default factory state, and your data will be wiped.

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How to reboot an iPad? ›

Press and quickly release the volume button closest to the top button. Press and quickly release the volume button farthest from the top button. Press and hold the top button until the device begins to restart.

How do I erase everything on my iPad and start over without password? ›

If you can't remember your passcode when you try again, you need to use a computer to put your iPad in recovery mode. This process deletes your data and settings, including your passcode, allowing you to set up your iPad again. After you erase your iPad, you can restore your data and settings from a backup.