iPad: Security and privacy

Learn how to set up a passcode, change a passcode, and set up Touch ID.

Learn how to protect your privacy by setting a passcode on your iPad, and also adding Touch ID so you can unlock your tablet without a passcode.

Before you begin

The demonstrations in this course use an iPad without a physical Home button. If your tablet is different, some of the steps might vary a little, but you can still follow along.

Before you start, make sure the iPad is switched on, and fully charged. Your operating software should also be up to date.

Set up a passcode and lock delay

To set up a passcode, first open the Settings app and then from the menu on the left tap Touch ID & Password:

Some options will appear on the right of the screen. Look for Turn Passcode On and tap this.
Tap Passcode Options to see some different types of passcodes you can use. In this course, we use a six-digit number.
Tap in your passcode. If the iPad says the passcode is too weak, tap Change Passcode and try again.
If you have an Apple ID set up with your iPad you can add your passcode to your account.
Tap Require Passcode to set a lock delay of 5 minutes.
To set a new passcode, tap Change Passcode and follow the steps to set a new six-digit number.
It’s a good idea to keep a record of your passcode in a safe place.

You can test your new passcode by pressing the power button to make your iPad screen go dark. Then press the power button again, and Lock screen appears. Swipe to unlock and enter your passcode. If you enter it incorrectly, the passcode will shake.

Set up Touch ID

You can unlock your iPad with a fingerprint by setting up Touch ID. This can be a faster and more convenient way to unlock your iPad, but you will still need a passcode to keep your information secure. Remember, your passcode can always unlock your iPad, even if Touch ID is set up.

You can also use Touch ID to:

Authorise payments in iTunes and the App Store.
Unlock the Wallet app and Apple Pay to buy things at the counter in a shop
Automatically enter passwords while logging into apps and websites.

To set up Touch ID:

In the Settings app, find Touch ID & Passcode.
Type your passcode to access these settings.
On the right side of the screen tap Add a Fingerprint.
Follow the instructions that appear, by placing and moving your finger on the iPad’s power button. The fingerprint sensor is inside the power button.
You will need to tap Continue several times, as the iPad records all of your fingerprint.
The process is complete when you return to the Touch ID & Passcode screen.

Test Touch ID

To test that Touch ID is working properly:

Press the power button to turn off your iPad’s screen.
Press the power button again to wake up your iPad.
Instead of swiping up to unlock, rest your finger on the surface of the power button.
The sensor in the power button recognises your fingerprint and Touch ID unlocks your iPad.