An iPad gets disabled when you enter the wrong passcode on the Lock Screen too many times consecutively.
Here's a breakdown:
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Incorrect Passcode Attempts: The iPad security system is designed to protect your data. If someone (including yourself) repeatedly enters the wrong passcode, the device will disable itself as a security measure.
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Progressive Lockout Periods: The lockout period increases with each successive failed attempt.
Incorrect Attempts Lockout Period 6 1 minute 7 5 minutes 8 15 minutes 9 60 minutes 10 iPad is disabled; requires restore using iTunes or Finder -
"iPad is disabled" Message: After too many failed attempts (usually 10), the iPad displays a message stating "iPad is disabled. Connect to iTunes" (or Finder, on newer macOS versions). This means you can no longer attempt to enter the passcode on the device itself.
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Recovery Required: At this point, restoring your iPad to factory settings is generally required to regain access. This process will erase all data on the device unless you have a recent backup.
Important Considerations:
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Backup is Crucial: Regularly backing up your iPad to iCloud or a computer is critical. If you're locked out and need to restore, a backup allows you to recover your data.
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Apple ID and Password: You'll likely need your Apple ID and password to complete the restore process.
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Erase iPad (if enabled): If the "Erase iPad" setting is turned on (Settings > Touch ID & Passcode (or Face ID & Passcode) > Erase Data), the iPad will automatically erase itself after 10 failed passcode attempts.
In summary, repeated incorrect passcode entries trigger the iPad's security features, ultimately disabling the device as a safeguard against unauthorized access. Recovery then requires restoring the iPad, ideally from a recent backup.
