How to restore all content to iPad from a backup

You can restore content, settings, and apps from a backup to a new or newly erased iPad. You can restore from an iCloud backup or a computer backup, and if you’ve already set up your iPad, you need to erase all of its content first. If your backup is encrypted, you’ll need its password, too.

Important: To restore your iPad, you must have a backup to restore from. See Back up iPad.

Restore iPad from an iCloud backup

1. Turn on your iPad.

   The Hello screen should appear. If you already set up your device, you need to erase all of its content before you can use these steps to restore from your backup.

2. Do one of the following:
   • Tap Set Up Manually, tap Restore from iCloud Backup, then follow the onscreen instructions.
   • If you have another iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch with iOS 11, iPadOS 13, or later, you can use Quick Start to automatically set up your new device. Bring the two devices close together, then follow the onscreen instructions to securely copy many of your settings, preferences, and iCloud Keychain. You can then restore the rest of your data and content to your new device from your iCloud backup.

     Or, if both devices have iOS 12.4, iPadOS 13, or later, you can transfer all your data wirelessly from your previous device to your new one. Keep your devices near each other and plugged into power until the migration process is complete.

You’re asked for your Apple Account. If you’ve forgotten your Apple Account, go to the Recover your Apple Account website.

Restore iPad from a computer backup

1. Using USB, connect a new or newly erased iPad to the computer containing your backup.
2. Do one of the following:
   • On a Mac (macOS 10.15 or later): In the Finder sidebar, select your iPad, click Trust, and click Restore from this backup.
   • On a Mac (macOS 10.14 or earlier) or a Windows device: Open the iTunes app, click the button resembling an iPad near the top left of the iTunes window, click Summary, and then click Restore Backup.
3. Choose your backup from the list and click Continue.

If your backup is encrypted, you need to enter the password before you restore your files and settings.