I have a 10th Gen iPad that was previously used for work, and I forgot I had it. I've been trying to unlock it with the passcode I set, but after several months of trying, I still can't get it open. I attempted to factory reset the device by using the volume up and down buttons and holding the lock button while it's connected to my PC, but it still shows an "iPad Unavailable for 8 hours" message when it boots up. I also tried performing a DFU reset, but with the same outcome—still locked out. Can businesses completely lock an iPad? I'm no longer with the company, so I don't plan to return unless they contact me. Should I take it to my local iFixit store for help?
1 Answer
It sounds like you might not have followed the correct steps for the DFU reset. If done right, your iPad should show a USB cable icon. At that point, you need to connect it to a computer and use iTunes or similar to wipe and reinstall iOS. Also, the "Unavailable" screen isn't related to a company lock. If your iPad is registered with Apple Business Manager or MDM, you'll only know for sure after successfully resetting it.
Thanks! I did the DFU while it was connected, so I’ll try again, starting unconnected. Do I need to wait for the 8-hour countdown to finish before trying the DFU reset?