How to Set a Passcode on the iPad

Setting a passcode on your iPad is the first step in protecting your data, such as e-mail accounts and contacts. This article will show you how to set a passcode on your iPad.

Steps

1. Open the Settings app.

2. Tap the "Passcode" tab.

3. Select "Turn On Passcode" 

4. Enter the desired passcode, then enter it again.

5. Once entered, your passcode is now set. The following options can now be selected:

• Turn Passcode Off: Asks for the current passcode to be entered, then removes it.
• Change Passcode: Enter the current passcode to make desired changes to the combination.
• Require Passcode: Adjust how long your iPad will stay unlocked during use before requiring the passcode entry. Please note that the shorter the time, the more secure that your device will be.
• Picture Frame: Turn on to activate the iPad’s virtual picture frame.
• Siri: Turn on to access Siri in the lock screen.
• Erase Data: Turn on to erase all data on your iPad after 10 failed passcode entries.

Tips

• Using a passcode is not necessary for everyone, especially for those using their iPad only at home.
• If you are concerned about forgetting your passcode, write it down and store the note in a secure place so you know where it is.
• In iOS 4 and later, there is a new option on the Passcode setting. The setting is “Simple Passcode” which can be set to be on (default) or off. If you find that a 4 digit number code is too simple, you can switch simple passcode to off and now you can set a longer alpha-numeric passcode.
• Don't set a very simple passcode like 0000 or 9999. It is much easier to figure out.

Warnings

• Avoid selecting “Erase All Data” after 10 failed passcode entries unless absolutely necessary. If you forget the passcode, the only way you can retrieve the lost data is by restoring your iPad through iTunes.
• Do not forget the passcode. If you forget it, you will need to restore your iPad through iTunes.