| Method | Difficulty | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Erase iPad (On-Screen) | Easy | Apple ID credentials & Wi-Fi |
| iCloud / Find My | Medium | Another device & Apple ID |
| Recovery Mode | Advanced | PC/Mac & Lightning/USB-C Cable |

What is the iPad Pro Unavailable Message?
The “iPad Unavailable” or “Security Lockout” message appears on your iPad Pro after too many consecutive failed passcode attempts. It is a security feature designed to protect your data from unauthorized access.
When you see this message, the iPad Pro has disabled the login screen for a specific duration or permanently. This usually happens after six or more incorrect entries. If you reach ten failed attempts, the device will often lock completely, requiring a factory reset.
To resolve this, you must erase the device and restore your data from a backup. Without a backup, all local data will be lost, although your iCloud synced data (like Photos and Contacts) will remain safe in the cloud.
Step-by-Step Solutions
Method 1: Use the “Erase iPad” Option (iPadOS 15.2 or later)
If your iPad Pro is connected to a cellular or Wi-Fi network, you can reset it directly from the lockout screen. This is the fastest way to fix the login failed issue.
- Keep entering the passcode until the “Erase iPad” option appears at the bottom of the screen.
- Tap Erase iPad, then tap it again to confirm.
- Enter your Apple ID password to sign out of your account.
- Tap Erase iPad one last time to permanently delete all data and settings.
- Wait for the reboot and set up your iPad Pro as new.
Method 2: Restore via Recovery Mode (PC or Mac)
If the on-screen option does not appear, you must use a computer. This method forces the iPad Pro into a state where the firmware can be reinstalled.
First, ensure you have the necessary tools installed on your computer. If you are using Linux or a Mac terminal for device identification, you can use libimobiledevice to check the status:
# Install tools to identify connected iOS devices
brew install libimobiledevice
# Check if the iPad is recognized in Recovery Mode
ideviceinfo
Follow these manual steps to enter Recovery Mode on an iPad Pro (Models with Face ID):
- Connect your iPad Pro to your computer.
- Press and quickly release the Volume Up button.
- Press and quickly release the Volume Down button.
- Press and hold the Top (Power) button until you see the recovery mode screen (a cable pointing toward a computer).
- Open Finder (Mac) or iTunes (Windows) and select Restore when the pop-up appears.
Method 3: Reset via iCloud Find My
If you don’t have a computer and the “Erase iPad” button isn’t showing, use another mobile device to wipe the locked iPad Pro remotely.
- Log in to iCloud.com/find or open the Find My app on another Apple device.
- Select your locked iPad Pro from the list of “All Devices.”
- Choose Erase This Device.
- Follow the prompts to confirm. Once the device is wiped, the “iPad Unavailable” message will disappear.