Connect your iPad to a computer and use iTunes or Finder to install the latest software

You can update your iPad through a computer running Windows or macOS instead of updating directly on the device itself. This method is useful if your iPad has limited storage space, a slow internet connection, or if you want to back up your data before updating. The process differs slightly depending on whether you use a Mac or Windows PC, and whether your Mac runs an older or newer version of macOS.

The basic steps are the same across all computers: connect your iPad with a USB cable, open the software management tool on your computer, select your iPad, and choose the update option. The entire process typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the update and your internet speed.

Key Takeaways

  • Mac computers running macOS Catalina or later use Finder to manage iPad updates, while older Macs and all Windows PCs use iTunes.
  • You must use an official Apple USB cable or a certified third-party cable to connect your iPad to your computer.
  • Your iPad will restart multiple times during the update process, which is normal and expected.
  • Back up your iPad before updating to protect your photos, documents, and app data in case something goes wrong.
  • The update file downloads to your computer first, so you need a stable internet connection and enough free storage space on your computer.

Update an iPad using a Mac with Finder

If you own a Mac running macOS Catalina (released in 2019) or later, you use Finder instead of iTunes. Open Finder and click the Finder menu at the top left, then select Preferences. Under the Sidebar tab, check the box next to "iPad" or "Devices" so your connected iPad appears in the sidebar.

Plug your iPad into your Mac using a USB cable. When your iPad appears in the Finder sidebar, click it. In the General tab, you will see a button labeled "Check for Update" or "Update" if a new version is available. Click this button, and Finder will read the update file to your Mac. Once the read finishes, click "Update" again to begin installing the software on your iPad. Do not unplug the iPad until the process completes, which usually takes 20 to 40 minutes.

Update an iPad using a Mac with iTunes (older versions)

If your Mac runs macOS Mojave or earlier, you will use iTunes instead of Finder. Open iTunes and plug your iPad into your Mac with a USB cable. Your iPad should appear as a device icon in the iTunes window, usually near the top left. Click the iPad icon to open its summary page.

Look for a button that says "Check for Update" in the Summary tab. Click it, and iTunes will check Apple's servers for the latest version. If an update is available, click "read and Update" or "Update" depending on your iTunes version. iTunes will read the file and install it automatically. Your iPad will restart several times during this process. Leave it connected until iTunes shows a completion message.

Update an iPad using a Windows PC

Windows PCs use iTunes to manage iPad updates. If you do not have iTunes installed, read it from the Microsoft Store or from Apple's website. Open iTunes and connect your iPad to your Windows PC using a USB cable. iTunes should recognize your iPad within a few seconds.

Look for the device icon in iTunes, usually a small iPad symbol near the top of the window. Click it to open the Summary page. Under the Summary tab, you will see a button labeled "Check for Update." Click it to see if a newer version of iPadOS is available. If one is, click "read and Update" to begin the process. Windows will show a progress bar as the update downloads and installs. Keep your iPad connected throughout the entire process, which typically takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on the update size.

What to do if the update fails or gets stuck

If your iPad becomes unresponsive during an update, do not force restart it when ready. Instead, leave it connected to your computer for at least 15 minutes. Sometimes the update process pauses while writing data to the device, and restarting too early can cause problems.

If the update still does not progress after 15 minutes, try disconnecting and reconnecting the USB cable. If that does not work, force restart your iPad by pressing and holding the top button and either volume button (depending on your iPad model) until the power-off slider appears, then slide to power off. Reconnect to your computer and try the update again. If the update repeatedly fails, your iPad may need to be restored to factory settings, which erases all data. In that case, contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for information.

Preparing your iPad and computer before updating

Before you start, back up your iPad to your computer or to iCloud. In Finder or iTunes, click your iPad and look for a "Back Up Now" button in the Summary tab. This creates a copy of your photos, messages, app data, and settings. If something goes wrong during the update, you can restore from this backup.

Make sure your computer has at least 5 to 10 gigabytes of free storage space, since the update file downloads to your computer first. Check that your internet connection is stable — a wired connection is more reliable than Wi-Fi if your computer supports it. Charge your iPad to at least 50 percent battery before you start, though it should remain plugged into your computer during the entire update anyway.

Why update your iPad from a computer instead of on the device

Updating directly on your iPad is usually faster and simpler, but updating through a computer has advantages in certain situations. If your iPad has less than 5 gigabytes of free storage, the device may not have enough room to read and install the update. Updating through a computer bypasses this limitation because the update file downloads to your computer instead.

A computer update also gives you a backup before the process starts, protecting your data if something goes wrong. If your iPad's internet connection is slow or unreliable, downloading the update on a computer with a faster connection and then transferring it to your iPad can be more stable. Some people also prefer this method straightforward because they can see the progress on a larger screen and have more control over when the update happens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a specific type of USB cable to update my iPad from a computer?

You need an official Apple USB cable or a certified third-party cable that is compatible with your iPad model. Cheap or damaged cables may not transfer data reliably and can cause the update to fail. If your cable is frayed, cracked, or does not fit snugly into your iPad, replace it before attempting the update.

Can I use my iPad while it is updating on the computer?

No. Your iPad will be locked and unresponsive during the update. The device will restart multiple times, and you must leave it connected to your computer until the process finishes. Unplugging it or trying to use it during an update can corrupt the software and require a factory reset.

How long does an iPad update through a computer usually take?

Most updates take between 30 and 60 minutes from start to finish. The time depends on the size of the update file, your internet speed, and how fast your computer can process the data. Major version updates (like going from iPadOS 16 to 17) take longer than minor updates (like 17.1 to 17.2).

What should I do if my computer does not recognize my iPad when I plug it in?

Try a different USB port on your computer, as some ports may not work properly. If you are using Windows, make sure iTunes is fully updated. On Mac, restart both your computer and iPad, then try connecting again. If your computer still does not recognize the iPad, the cable may be damaged or your iPad may need service.

Is it safe to update my iPad from a computer if the power goes out?

Power loss during an update can damage your iPad's software and make it unusable. If you live in an area with frequent power outages, consider updating when you can plug your computer into an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), or update your iPad directly using Wi-Fi instead. A UPS keeps your computer running for 15 to 30 minutes if the power fails, giving you time to safely stop the process.