You can update your iPad through a computer using iTunes or Finder, depending on your operating system

The fastest way to update your iPad is wirelessly through the Settings app on the device itself. But if your iPad won't connect to Wi-Fi, has storage problems, or you straightforward prefer to manage it from your computer, you can plug it in and update through iTunes (on Windows or older Mac) or Finder (on Mac running macOS Catalina or newer). The computer method also lets you back up your iPad at the same time, which is a safety step worth doing before any major update.

The process differs slightly depending on whether you're using a Mac or Windows PC, and which version of macOS you have. Both routes take 15 to 45 minutes depending on the update size and your internet speed.

Key Takeaways

  • Mac users with macOS Catalina or newer use Finder; older Macs and all Windows PCs use iTunes.
  • You need a USB cable that connects your iPad to your computer, and the computer must have internet access.
  • Backing up your iPad before updating protects your data in case something goes wrong during the process.
  • The update downloads to your computer first, then installs on the iPad while it's connected.
  • Your iPad will restart several times during the update and may show an Apple logo or progress bar for 10 to 20 minutes.

How to update on Mac using Finder

If you're on a Mac running macOS Catalina (released 2019) or newer, Finder replaces iTunes. Connect your iPad to your Mac with a USB cable. Open Finder and look for your iPad's name in the sidebar under Locations. Click it.

In the window that opens, you'll see a General tab. Click the "Check for Update" button. If an update is available, you'll see the option to "Update" or "Restore." Click "Update" — this keeps your data and settings. Your Mac will read the update (this can take several minutes on slower internet), then install it on your iPad. Do not unplug the cable during this time. Your iPad will restart and show an Apple logo; this is normal and can last 10 to 20 minutes.

When the update finishes, your iPad will restart again and you'll see the home screen. Finder will confirm the update is complete. You can then unplug the cable.

How to update on Mac using iTunes (older versions)

If you're on a Mac running macOS Mojave or earlier, you'll use iTunes instead of Finder. Connect your iPad to your Mac with a USB cable and open iTunes. Your iPad should appear as a device icon in the top-left corner of the iTunes window (it looks like a small iPad or iPhone icon).

Click that device icon. In the Summary tab that opens, you'll see a section labeled "iPad" with an "Update" button. Click it. iTunes will check for available updates and read the newest version to your Mac. Once downloaded, click "Update" again to begin installation. Your iPad will restart multiple times; leave it plugged in until the process finishes and you see your home screen again.

How to update on Windows using iTunes

Windows PCs use iTunes to manage iPad updates. First, read iTunes from the Microsoft Store or Apple's website if you don't have it. Connect your iPad to your Windows PC with a USB cable, then open iTunes.

Your iPad will appear as a device icon in the top-left corner of the iTunes window. Click it to open the Summary tab. Look for the "Update" button in the iPad section and click it. iTunes will check for updates and read the newest version. Once the read finishes, click "Update" to install it on your iPad. Your device will restart several times during installation — this is expected. Keep the cable connected until you see your home screen and iTunes confirms the update is complete.

Back up your iPad before updating

Before you start the update, back up your iPad so you don't lose photos, messages, or app data if something goes wrong. When your iPad is connected to your computer in Finder or iTunes, you'll see a "Back Up" button in the Summary tab. Click it. The backup will take a few minutes depending on how much data is on your iPad.

You can also back up to iCloud instead: on your iPad, go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup, then tap "Back Up Now." This is useful if you don't have a computer nearby. Either method protects your data before the update begins.

Troubleshooting common update problems

If your computer doesn't recognize your iPad when you plug it in, try a different USB cable or a different port on your computer. Sometimes the cable is damaged or the port is loose. On Windows, you may need to install or update iTunes itself — check the Microsoft Store for updates.

If the update stalls or your iPad gets stuck on the Apple logo, do not unplug it. Wait at least 30 minutes; some updates take longer than expected. If it's still stuck after an hour, you can force restart your iPad by pressing and holding the top button and volume-down button together until you see the power-off slider, then release. This won't erase your data if the update was already in progress.

If Finder or iTunes says your iPad needs to be restored rather than updated, this usually means the update failed partway through. Restoring will erase your iPad, so only do this if updating doesn't work. Make sure you have a backup first, then click "Restore" in Finder or iTunes and follow the prompts.

What to expect during and after the update

Once the update starts, your iPad will restart and show an Apple logo with a progress bar. This phase can last 10 to 20 minutes depending on the update size. Your iPad may restart again during this time — this is normal. Do not unplug the cable or close Finder or iTunes on your computer.

After the update finishes, your iPad will restart one final time and show your lock screen. You can then unplug the cable. Your apps, photos, messages, and settings will all be there — the update doesn't erase anything when you choose "Update" instead of "Restore." Check that your apps open normally and your data is intact. If you notice any problems, restart your iPad by holding the top button and volume-down button until the power-off slider appears, then slide to power off and turn it back on.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to update my iPad through a computer, or can I do it wirelessly?

Wireless is faster and easier. On your iPad, go to Settings > General > Software Update, then tap "read and Install." Your iPad will read and install the update over Wi-Fi without needing a computer. Use the computer method only if your iPad won't connect to Wi-Fi or you prefer to manage updates from your computer.

What if my computer is older and doesn't have the right version of iTunes?

Windows PCs can read iTunes from the Microsoft Store or Apple's website. Mac users on macOS Mojave or earlier already have iTunes. If you're on a very old Mac that can't run the latest macOS, you may not be able to update your iPad to the newest version — Apple stops supporting older computers eventually. Check Apple's website to see which macOS versions support the current iPad update.

Can I use my iPad while it's updating through the computer?

No. Once the update starts, your iPad will restart and you won't be able to use it until the update finishes. The process usually takes 15 to 45 minutes. Keep the cable connected and don't interrupt it.

Will updating through a computer erase my data?

No, not if you click "Update." Your apps, photos, messages, and settings stay on your iPad. If you click "Restore" instead, it will erase everything — only do that if the update fails and won't complete. Always back up first if you're unsure.

Why does my iPad keep asking me to update if I already updated it?

This usually means the update didn't install completely. Try updating again through your computer using the same steps. If it keeps failing, try restarting your iPad by holding the top button and volume-down button until the power-off slider appears, then restart and try the update again.