How to Restore and Reset iPads Using macOS Recovery and DFU Modes

How to Restore iPads via DFU Mode on macOS

If you have purchased a pre-owned iPad and find it stuck on an authentication screen or locked, performing a complete factory restore via macOS DFU (Device Firmware Update) or Recovery mode is necessary. Note that this process deletes all user data but does not bypass iCloud Activation Lock if active.

1. Prerequisites

• Target Hardware: Any Apple iPad model.
• Required Tools: A Mac computer, compatible USB/Lightning cable, and Finder (macOS Catalina and newer) or iTunes.

2. Compatibility Snapshot

• Activation Lock: Restoring the iPad will NOT bypass Activation Lock. If the device was linked to a previous user\'s Apple ID, you must contact them to release it or provide the original proof of purchase to Apple Support.

3. Installation Preparation

1. Power Off: Disconnect the iPad from the computer and power it off completely.
2. Connect: Launch Finder on your Mac.

4. EFI and config.plist Review

1. This does not apply to this case as the restoration is performed via official Apple USB interfaces.

5. Post-Installation

1. Enter DFU Mode:
   • For iPads with Home Button: Press and hold both the Home and Power buttons for 10 seconds, release the Power button while continuing to hold the Home button for another 5 seconds.
   • For iPads with Face ID: Press Volume Up, then Volume Down, and hold the Power button. When screen goes black, hold Volume Down and Power for 5 seconds, then release Power.
2. Restore: Finder will display a message stating it has detected an iPad in recovery mode. Click Restore iPad to download the firmware and factory reset the device.

6. Troubleshooting

Reported Issue: Stuck on Apple ID lock screen

1. iCloud Lock bypass: There is no legal software method to bypass Apple\'s server-side Activation Lock. Do not pay for services claiming to unlock devices, as these are scams.

7. Dual Boot and Advanced Configuration

• This does not apply to this case because the restoration modifies the iPadOS firmware.

8. Verification, Maintenance and Rollback

• Verification: Ensure the iPad displays the initial "Hello" setup screen after the restore process completes.

9. References and Glossary

• DFU Mode: A low-level boot state that allows iOS/iPadOS devices to be restored from any firmware state.