How to bypass Activation Lock on iPad (8 proven methods that work)

Activation Lock is a security feature that protects iPads from unauthorized use. It ensures that only the original owner can set up the device after a factory reset by requiring their Apple ID and password.

While this feature helps deter theft, it can also cause problems for legitimate users who may have forgotten their Apple ID or purchased a second-hand iPad that is still linked to the previous owner’s account.

This guide provides tested methods to remove Activation Lock and regain access to your iPad, whether you have access to the Apple ID or not.

What is Activation Lock?

Activation Lock is part of Apple’s Find My security system. When enabled, it links the iPad to an Apple ID, preventing anyone else from erasing or setting it up without entering the correct credentials.

Why is My iPad Locked?

Your iPad may be stuck on the Activation Lock screen due to:

• The previous owner did not remove their Apple ID before selling or giving it away.
• You forgot your Apple ID password after a reset.
• The iPad was reported lost or stolen, making it impossible to activate without Apple’s help.

If you don’t have the correct login details, Activation Lock cannot be removed without additional steps. The following methods can help.

8 Ways to Remove iPad Activation Lock

Turn off the lock via iCloud

If you have access to the Apple ID used on the iPad, removing Activation Lock through iCloud is the easiest method.

1. Go to iCloud.com and log in with the Apple ID and password.
   
2. Then, log in using the Apple ID and password. If you don’t know how to sign in, see Sign in to iCloud.
3. Click Find iPhone (Even though you are locating an iPad).
   
   
4. Select All Devices.
   
   
5. Find the iPad from the list and pick it.
6. Click Erase iPad to remove the data remotely.
   
7. Next, pick Remove From Account.

Disable Activation Lock via Find My iPad

If the iPad is still functional and hasn’t been reset, you may be able to turn off Find My iPad manually.

1. Open Settings on the iPad.
2. Tap on the Apple ID name at the top.
3. Select Find My, then Find My iPad.
4. Toggle Find My iPad off.
5. Enter the Apple ID password when prompted.

This method only works if you still have access to the Apple ID associated with the iPad. For more information on this method, see How to turn off Activation Lock.

Free Methods to Bypass iCloud Lock

If you don’t have the Apple ID credentials, try these free options:

• Contact the seller or previous owner and ask them to remove the iPad from their iCloud account remotely.
• Check if the iPad was reported lost or stolen by using Apple’s Activation Lock Status Tool.
• Ask Apple Support for help if you have proof of ownership.
• Use a DNS bypass (see the next section) for limited access to some iPad features.

To find out about them, see Tools that remove iCloud lock for free.

Bypass Activation Lock Using DNS

A DNS bypass does not remove Activation Lock completely but allows limited access to some apps and settings.

1. Reset the iPad and start the setup process.
2. On the Wi-Fi selection screen, tap the small (i) next to your network.
3. Select More Wi-Fi Settings, then tap (i) again.
4. Under DNS, enter the correct server address based on your location:
   • North America: 104.154.51.7
   • Asia: 104.155.220.58
   • Europe: 104.155.28.90
   • South America: 35.199.88.219
   • Other regions: 78.100.17.60
5. Tap Back, select your Wi-Fi network, and enter the password.
6. When the next screen appears, tap Back again.

This method provides temporary access but does not fully unlock the iPad.

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Remove Activation Lock Without the Previous Owner

If you cannot contact the previous owner, a paid unlocking service may help. However, many services are fraudulent, so research carefully.

What to check before using a service:

• Money-back guarantee in case the service doesn’t work.
• Payment by credit card for fraud protection.
• Verified customer reviews on independent websites.

To find out how to bypass the lock using our recommended supplier, see how to use DirectUnlocks.

Use a Software Unlock Tool

Several third-party software tools claim to remove Activation Lock, but most are unreliable.

A reputable tool should:

• Provide a money-back guarantee.
• Have a high success rate with real customer testimonials.
• Offer regular updates for compatibility with new iPadOS versions.

Many hackers and developers have created software tools and services that remove iPad Activation Lock.

The quality of many of these tools is questionable with most being dangerous.

We tested as many tools as possible to try and remove iCloud Activation Lock. We found most don’t work, and others can damage your iPad permanently. Others infected our computer.

If you would like to perform the iCloud Activation Lock bypass using a tool, see how to use a software hack.

Use an Activation Lock Bypass Code (For Managed Devices Only)

If your iPad was issued by a school or business, an IT administrator may be able to remove Activation Lock using an Activation Lock bypass code.

1. Contact the IT department.
2. Ask if they can remove Activation Lock remotely.
3. If available, enter the bypass code during setup.

This method only works for supervised devices issued by organizations.

Contact Apple Support for Help

Apple may remove Activation Lock if you provide proof of ownership.

1. Visit the Apple Activation Lock Support Page.
2. Schedule an appointment at an Apple Store or contact Apple Support.
3. Provide a receipt or invoice proving you are the rightful owner.

If Apple approves the request, the unlock process takes 7-10 days.

Comparing Activation Lock Removal Methods

Wrap up

If your iPad is locked with Activation Lock, try these methods before considering a paid service.

• If you have the Apple ID, use iCloud or Find My iPad.
• If you don’t, try a DNS bypass or Apple Support.
• Avoid free unlocking tools, as most are scams.

Checking Activation Lock status before buying a used iPad can help avoid these problems.

Always disable the iCloud Lock before you sell or trade in your iPad.