Forgetting your iPad password can be stressful, especially when repeated failed attempts trigger "iPad is disabled" messages. Once this happens, you cannot access the device unless you erase and restore it. Thankfully, Apple provides an official method to unlock your iPad, and there are also faster tools -PcGoGo Screen Unlock that simplify the process. This guide explains all working solutions and shows you how to safely regain access to your iPad.
Official Method: Using Apple's Recovery Mode
Step 1: Turn off your iPad
Disconnect your iPad from the computer if it is currently connected
Turn off your iPad according to the model you have:
For iPads without a Home button:
Press and hold either volume button together with the top button until the power-off slider appears
For iPads with a Home button:
Press and hold the top button until you see the power-off slider
Drag the slider to shut down your iPad, then wait a moment to ensure it has fully powered off
Put your iPad in recovery mode
Use a USB cable to connect your iPad to your computer. If you don't have access to a computer, you'll need to visit an Apple Store or an Apple Authorized Service Provider for assistance
With your iPad connected, use the button combination for your model:
For iPads without a Home button:
Press and quickly release the volume button nearest the top button
Press and quickly release the volume button farthest from the top button
Then press and hold the top button
For iPads with a Home button:
Press and hold both the Home button and the top (or side) button at the same time
Keep holding the button, even when the Apple logo appears
Release it only when the recovery mode screen—showing a cable and a computer—appears
If the passcode screen reappears, power off your iPad and try again
If your iPad's buttons aren't functioning and you can't access recovery mode, your device may require service
Step 3: Restore your iPad
Locate your iPad in Finder, iTunes, or the Apple Devices app on the connected computer
When you see the option to Restore or Update, choose Restore
Your computer will download the required software for your iPad and begin the restore process
If the download takes more than 15 minutes and your iPad exits the recovery mode screen, allow the download to finish, then turn off your device and re-enter recovery mode
Wait for the restoration to complete
Step 4: Follow the onscreen instructions to set up your iPad
After the restore process is done, the Hello screen will appear
Disconnect your iPad from the computer and complete the setup steps on the device
If you aren't able to reset your iPad using a Mac or PC, you can erase it through iCloud.com and then restore from a backup—or set it up as a new device
Unlock Your iPad Without a Password Using PcGoGo Screen Unlock
If you're looking for a quicker and more straightforward alternative, PcGoGo Screen Unlock provides an easy solution for removing any type of iPad screen lock—even when you no longer remember your passcode.
Download and Install PcGoGo Screen Unlock
Visit the official PcGoGo Screen Unlock website and download the latest version
Install the program on your Windows PC or Mac
Launch PcGoGo Screen Unlock to begin the iPad unlocking process
Connect Your iPad to the Computer
Use a USB cable to connect your locked iPad to your computer
Make sure the device is detected successfully
On the main interface, select Unlock Screen Passcode, then click Remove Now
Download the Firmware Package
PcGoGo Screen Unlock will automatically identify your iPad model and iPadOS version
Download the required firmware package for the unlocking procedure
Wait for the download to complete before moving on
Start the Unlocking Process
Click Start Removal once the firmware package is ready
PcGoGo Screen Unlock will begin removing your screen passcode, Face ID, or Touch ID
Do not unplug your iPad while the process is running
Within a few minutes, the lock will be successfully removed
Set Up Your iPad After Unlocking
Your iPad will restart without the previous lock screen
Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your device
Restore your data from iCloud or a computer backup if available
Conclusion
Forgetting your iPad password can be frustrating, but you're never locked out for good. Apple's official recovery mode offers a reliable way to erase and restore your device, though the process can be time-consuming and requires precise steps. If you prefer a faster, easier solution, PcGoGo Screen Unlock provides a straightforward method to remove any iPad screen lock without needing the original passcode. By choosing the method that suits you best, you can quickly regain access to your iPad and get back to using your device without hassle.
