How to Fix iPad Security Lockout: Most Useful Guide

How can you do when your iPad security lockout? Here we offer some useful ways for you to make it with or without a computer.

Kathy by Kathy Updated December 20, 2024
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My iPad is under security lock, how to unlock?

After a few times of trying the lock code unsuccesfull, the iPad is under security lock.

- Question from Apple Community

You might not recognize the Security Lockout screen on your iPad at first, but it’s essentially a replacement for the “iPad is disabled, connect to iTunes” message found on older versions of iPadOS. This change was introduced with iPadOS 15.2 and later.

Why is my iPad unavailable after security lockout?

The “iPad is disabled” message usually appears when someone enters the wrong passcode more than five times in a row or if an iOS software update malfunctions. In rare cases, the "iPad Unavailable" or "Security Lockout" message might even show up while charging. Don’t worry—it’s fixable! This passage will give you detailed guidance to fix the issue.

Note: If your iPad displays "Security Lockout" or "iPad Unavailable" with a timer counting down, you still have an opportunity to unlock it without losing your data. However, if there’s no timer or you’ve forgotten your iPad password, you’ll need to erase the device to solve the problem.

Solution 1. How to fix security lockout on iPad without computer

The simplest way to remove the Security Lockout screen on an iPad is by using the Erase iPad feature provided by Apple. This solution is applicable if you meet the following conditions:

  • You remember the Apple ID credentials linked to the iPad.
  • Find My iPad is enabled before the device was locked.
  • The iPad is connected to a network.

If these conditions are met, you’ll see the Erase iPad option on the Security Lockout screen. By this operation, you can erase all content and settings on iPad, including the lock screen password. Afterward, you can set up your iPad as a new device and use it again. This method also works for fixing the iPhone Security Lockout issue.

Step 1. Select the Erase iPad option on the Security Lockout screen.

erase iPad

Step 2. Review the confirmation message and tap Erase iPad again > Enter your Apple ID credentials when prompted, then confirm by tapping Erase > Wait for the erasing process to complete. Once finished, set up your iPad as new.

Solution 2. How to reset security lockout iPad with iTunes

To fix this issue, you can also use iTunes to restore your iPad without passcode. If your Apple ID is signed in on your iPad, you'll need to provide the Apple ID and password after the restoration process.

Step 1. Launch iTunes on your computer and connect your iPad using a Lightning cable.

Step 2. Select the iPad icon in the left menu bar > Under the Summary or General tab, click the "Restore iPad" button.

Solution 3. How to solve iPad security lockout with iCloud

Another official method to reset an iPad with no timer on the Security Lockout screen is through iCloud. Performing a factory reset via iCloud will also bypass the Security Lockout. However, this requires your Apple ID credentials and a stable internet connection.

Step 1. Visit iCloud.com and log in using your Apple ID and password.

Step 2. Select "Find iPhone" from the available options.

Step 3. From the "All Devices" list, choose the iPad you want to erase.

Step 4. Click "Erase iPad" to delete all data and remove the locks on your iPad.

erase iPad

FAQs on iPad security lockout

1. Is security lockout permanent?

While on iOS 15.2 or later, before iOS 16, your iPhone will display Security Lockout, try again in 1 hour after the ninth attempt. All versions after iOS 15.2 or later will be locked forever after the tenth trial.

2. What happens if I don’t see a timer on the "iPad Security Lockout" screen?

If there’s no timer, you won’t be able to unlock the iPad without erasing it. Use iTunes, iCloud, or recovery mode to reset the device.

3. Can Apple Support help me remove "iPad Security Lockout"?

Apple Support can assist, but you’ll need to provide proof of ownership and your Apple ID credentials for them to unlock your device.

Final words

This passage tells you about how to fix iPad security lockout issue efficiently. If you want to solve the problem with a computer, you can rely on iTunes or iCloud to make it. If not, you can reset your iPad to factory settings directly. Hope this guide can help you a lot. 

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