How to Set Up a New iPad from Scratch

Complete guide to setting up your new iPad, from unboxing to customizing settings. Get your iPad ready for daily use in under 30 minutes.

1. Power on and select language. Press and hold the top button until the Apple logo appears. When the Hello screen appears, swipe up from the bottom. Select your language and country or region from the lists provided.
2. Connect to Wi-Fi network. Tap your Wi-Fi network name from the list of available networks. Enter your Wi-Fi password when prompted. Wait for the checkmark to appear next to your network name, confirming the connection.
3. Set up Face ID or Touch ID. Follow the on-screen prompts to scan your face (iPad Pro, iPad Air 4th gen and later) or place your finger on the Home button multiple times (older models). Position your face or finger as directed by the circular progress indicator until setup completes.
4. Create or sign in with Apple ID. Tap 'Sign in with your Apple ID' if you have one, or 'Don't have an Apple ID or forgot it?' to create a new account. Enter your Apple ID email and password, then complete two-factor authentication using another Apple device or your phone number.
5. Configure privacy and security settings. Choose whether to share analytics with Apple, enable location services, and set up Siri. Review each privacy setting carefully and select your preferences. Enable 'Find My iPad' to locate your device if it's lost or stolen.
6. Restore from backup or set up as new. Select 'Restore from iCloud Backup' to transfer data from another device, 'Restore from Mac or PC' to use iTunes/Finder backup, or 'Don't Transfer Apps & Data' for a fresh start. If restoring, select your most recent backup and wait for the download to complete.
7. Complete Apple services setup. Choose whether to enable iCloud+, Apple Pay, and Screen Time features. Set up automatic updates by tapping 'Install Updates Automatically'. Review the terms and conditions, then tap 'Agree' to finish setup.
8. Customize Control Center and home screen. Swipe down from the top-right corner to access Control Center. Go to Settings > Control Center to add or remove shortcuts. Organize your home screen by pressing and holding app icons to enter jiggle mode, then drag apps to create folders or rearrange layouts.