How to Factory Reset an iPad Without iTunes, Passcode, or a Computer

When faced with the need to reset your iPad but lacking the passcode or access to iTunes and a computer, there are several methods you can use. This guide will walk you through the steps, ensuring your data is safely erased and your device is restored to its factory settings.

Option 1: Reset iPad from the Settings App

This method is ideal when you have remembered the passcode or screen passcode.

Open the Settings app on your iPad. Scroll down and tap on General. Tap on Transfer or Reset iPad. Select Erase All Content and Settings. Tap Continue and enter your passcode. If you have a Screen Time passcode, enter that as well. Verify by tapping Erase iPhone.

Option 2: Reset iPad from the Lock Screen

This option is particularly useful if you forgot your passcode but have an Apple ID linked to the device. As of iOS 15.2, you can:

Unlock your iPad and keep entering the wrong passcode. When the Unavailable screen appears, tap on Erase iPad in the bottom right corner. Tap again on Erase iPad for confirmation. Enter your Apple ID password to start the process.

Option 3: Reset iPad via iCloud and the Find My App

Use the Find My feature to reset your iPad:

Sign into your iCloud account on another device using your Apple ID here: Click on the Find My tab. Select the iPad you want to reset from the list. Collapse the macOS and iOS dropdown and tap on Erase This Device.

Option 4: Reset iPad Using Recovery Mode

This is a more technical method but works if you are comfortable with some basic troubleshooting:

Connect your iPad to a computer via USB. Press and hold the Power button and the appropriate volume button (Volume Up for iPad Air and later, Volume Down for iPad Mini and iPad 2, or Home button for older iPads with a Home button) until the power off slider appears. Drag the slider to turn off your iPad. While holding the appropriate button, connect the USB cable to your computer. Continue holding the button until you see the recovery mode screen on your iPad. Once your iPad is in recovery mode, open iTunes on your computer or Finder for Mac (macOS Catalina 10.15 or later). You should see a message that an issue has been detected and the option to restore your iPad. Select the iPad and begin the restore process by clicking on Restore.

Conclusion

There are multiple options to reset your iPad without iTunes, a passcode, or a computer. By following these instructions, you can ensure your device is completely wiped and ready for a fresh installation.

Related Blog Posts

Factory Reset iPad without Apple ID, Password [Updated]
How to Reset iPad Without Password or Computer
Solved! 5 Easy Ways to Factory Reset iPad Without Password