How to Reset Settings on an iPad

There are a lot of different settings that can be customized on an iPad, and each iPad owner likely has their own personal preferences.

So if you have received a used iPad from a friend or family member that left their settings on the device, you may be looking for a simple way to remove all of them at once.

Your iPad actually has an entire menu devoted to different types of resets, and one of the options is to reset all of the settings on the device.

This will restore device settings to the default options that would be found on a new iPad, but it will leave the apps and media that have been installed on the device. Our guide below will show you how to do this.

Our iPhone factory reset guide will provide you with information on using another reset option for your iPhone that clears all of your device data.

As an Amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Resetting All Settings on an iPad 2

The steps in this article were performed on an iPad 2, in iOS 8.3.

These steps will reset all of the settings on your device. It will not delete any apps, remove email accounts, or delete pictures, songs, or videos.

If you are attempting to configure an iPad to trade it in and want to remove all of your information, then you will want to do a factory reset of your iPad.

If you are thinking about trading in your iPad, consider doing it at Amazon. They have a great trade-in program for electronics and video games. Learn more about it here.

Step 1: Open the Settings menu.

open the settings menu

Step 2: Select the General option from the column at the left side of the screen.

select the general option

Step 3: Scroll to the bottom of the column at the right side of the screen and select the Reset option.

tap the reset button

Step 4: Select the Reset All Settings option at the top of the screen.

reset all settings

Step 5: Enter your passcode (if you have one set.)

enter passcode

Step 6: Tap the Reset button.

touch the reset button

Step 7: Tap the Reset button again to confirm that you wish to reset all of the settings on your iPad.

press the reset button again

Your device will then restart. Once it does, all of the settings on your iPad, such as background pictures, passcodes, Wi-Fi networks, etc. will be restored to the default iPad settings. Your apps and media will still be on the device.

Now that you know how to reset settings on your iPad, you can use this option to quickly change a lot of settings on the device at once.

Do you receive previews of your email messages on your lock screen, and you are worried about other people reading them? Learn how to turn off these email previews and keep your emails private.

Join Our Free Newsletter

Featured guides and deals

You may opt out at any time.
Read our Privacy Policy