[4 Ways] How to Backup a Locked iPad without Passcode

Can You Backup A Locked iPad without Passcode?

Forgot your iPad unlock code? Seeing the "iPad is disabled" message? After 10 incorrect passcode attempts, your iPad locks permanently, requiring a factory reset that erases all your data. This leads to a critical question: can you backup a locked iPad before resetting it?

The answer is yes! Even when your iPad is disabled, backing up your data is still possible. This guide reveals how to backup a disabled iPad using practical methods, including innovative solutions like FoneTool, to ensure your precious photos, contacts, and files remain secure and recoverable, and transfer data from broken iPad to new iPad.

4 Best Methods to Backing up A Locked iPad without Passcode

If you've previously backed up your iPad using these methods, you won't need the passcode to create another backup. Choose the approach that works best for your situation.

Way 1. How to Backup Locked iPad Using iTunes

iTunes can backup a locked iPad if you've previously synced with that computer. This method creates a full backup but requires prior setup. Follow the steps to learn how to backup locked iPad.

Step 1. Connect your locked iPad to computer via USB cable.

Step 2. Launch iTunes on your computer.

Step 3. Select your iPad when it appears in iTunes.

Step 4. Go to Summary tab > Click Back Up Now.

Step 5. Wait for the backup process to complete, ensuring your data is securely stored.

Way 2. [Easiest] How to Backup iPad/iPhone with FoneTool

When iTunes doesn't recognize your locked device, FoneTool provides the simplest solution. This professional Windows tool backs up locked iPads without passcodes and offers selective backup to save time and storage.

You can download FoneTool and follow the guide below to backup your locked iPad without passcode.

Step 1. Open FoneTool > Connect locked iPad via USB.

Step 2. Go to Phone Backup > Choose Selective Backup > Click Get Started.

Step 3. Select file types > Preview and choose specific files > Click OK.

Step 4. Click Backup Storage Path to set the backup path > Click Start Backup.

Way 3. How to Backup Disabled iPad With iCloud

iCloud offers wireless backup but requires prior setup. This method only works if you enabled iCloud Backup before your iPad became locked. However, you may also encounter iPad/iPhone won't backup to iCloud sometimes.

There are the steps to help you learn how to backup a disabled iPad.

Setup Requirements:

• Must have enabled iCloud Backup before iPad was locked

• Requires stable Wi-Fi connection

• Needs sufficient iCloud storage space

Backup Steps:

Step 1. Before iPad locks: Enable iCloud Backup in Settings > [Apple ID] > iCloud.

Step 2. Connect to Wi-Fi > Tap Back Up Now.

Step 3. Wait for the iCloud backup to complete, ensuring your data is safely stored in the cloud.

Way 4. How to Backup iPad with Dropbox

Dropbox provides manual file backup for specific documents and photos. This works if you previously installed the Dropbox app and enabled automatic photo uploads.

Step 1. Ensure Dropbox app was previously installed on iPad.

Step 2. Sign in to your Dropbox account.

Step 3. Manually upload important files to Dropbox.

Step 4. Access files from any device via your Dropbox account.

Alternative: Remove Passcode on iPad/iPhone with Recovery Mode

If you never synced your iPad with any backup method, use Recovery Mode to erase the device and passcode. Warning: This will delete all data.

Step 1. Connect iPad to computer > Open iTunes.

Step 2. Force-restart iPad to enter Recovery Mode. 

Step 3. In iTunes, choose Restore when prompted.

Step 4. Wait for a while and then set up the iPad as normal.

Troubleshooting Common Backup Issues

Connection Problems:

• Ensure USB cable is undamaged and properly connected
• Try different USB ports or cables
• Restart both computer and iPad

Software Compatibility:

• Update iTunes to latest version
• Ensure computer operating system is current
• Try alternative software like FoneTool

Storage Issues:

• Check available storage on computer or cloud service
• Clean unnecessary files before backup
• Use selective backup with FoneTool to save space

Tips for Keeping Your Data Secure

🔒 Enable Two-Factor Authentication - Adds extra security layer to Apple ID

🔄 Regular Software Updates - Keep iPad OS and apps current with latest security patches

📶 Secure Wi-Fi Only - Perform backups over trusted, secure networks

💾 Multiple Backup Methods - Use both local (iTunes/FoneTool) and cloud (iCloud) backups

⏰ Regular Backup Schedule - Set automatic backups to avoid data loss

Conclusion

Now you know how to backup a locked iPad without passcode using four different methods. For the most reliable solution, FoneTool stands out with its ability to backup disabled iPads without prior setup, selective backup options, and no storage limitations.

Remember: Regular backups are your best defense against data loss. Establish a consistent backup routine using either iTunes, iCloud, or FoneTool to ensure your valuable information remains protected in any situation.