How to fix an iPad that won't sync

⚡ Fast fix

• Not syncing at all? Check your cable and USB port—try a different one.
• iPad not showing up? Unlock your iPad® and tap Trust This Computer if prompted.
• Still not connecting? Restart both your iPad and computer.
• Sync failing? Update your software or reconnect using Finder (Mac®) or iTunes® (Windows).

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Syncing your iPad® to your computer is an easy way to back up all of the files, music, and photos you keep on your tablet. But no matter what method you use—Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, or USB connection—sometimes syncing just doesn't work. If you're stumped, you've come to the right place.

At Asurion, our experts help millions of people resolve tech issues every day—on all their favorite devices. When tech breaks, we fix it, from an iPad that won't update to an Xbox One® that won't read discs. Here are our tips for fixing an iPad that won't sync with your computer.

Why your iPad won’t sync with your computer

Before trying fixes, it helps to understand what might be causing the issue.

• Cable or USB port problem. A damaged cable or faulty port can prevent your iPad from connecting properly.
• Trust settings not enabled. If you don’t tap Trust This Computer, your iPad won’t allow data transfer.
• Software mismatch. Outdated iPadOS, macOS®, or iTunes can cause syncing to fail.
• Connection glitch. Temporary bugs can interrupt communication between your devices.

How to fix iPad won’t sync with computer

Start with the simplest fixes first.

Check your cable and USB connection

A stable connection is required for syncing.

• Try a different USB cable (preferably Apple®-certified)
• Plug directly into your computer instead of using a USB hub
• Try a different USB port

Unlock and trust your computer

Your iPad must be unlocked and trusted before it can sync.

1. Unlock your iPad.
2. Connect it to your computer.
3. When prompted, tap Trust This Computer.
4. Enter your passcode if asked.

If you don’t see the prompt, disconnect and reconnect your device.

Restart your iPad and computer

The first line of defense for most tech glitches is to restart the device.

For iPads with a Home button: Press and hold the Top button until the power off slider appears onscreen, then swipe the slider to the right.

For iPads without a Home button: Press and hold the Top button and one of the volume buttons until the power off slider appears onscreen, then swipe right on the slider to turn your iPad off.

Wait about 30 seconds and then turn your device back on. After your iPad reboots, attempt to sync again. If your device is frozen or responsive, try force restarting your iPad.

Use the correct sync method (Mac vs Windows)

Syncing works differently depending on your setup.

• On Mac (macOS Catalina or later), open Finder, then select your iPad under Locations
• On Windows or older Macs, open iTunes, then click the device icon when your iPad appears

Update your software

Outdated software can prevent syncing.

Update iPadOS

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap General > Software Update.
3. Tap Download and Install if available.

Update iTunes on Windows

Keeping iTunes up to date ensures compatibility with your iPad.

If you installed iTunes from the Microsoft Store:

1. Open the Microsoft Store app.
2. Click Library.
3. Click Get updates.
4. Install any available updates for iTunes.

If you installed iTunes from Apple’s website:

1. Open iTunes.
2. Click Help in the top menu.
3. Select Check for Updates.
4. Follow the prompts to install.

Update macOS

1. Click the Apple menu.
2. Select System Settings > General > Software Update.
3. Install any available updates.

When syncing still won’t work

If you’ve tried everything and your iPad still won’t sync:

• There may be a deeper software issue
• The charging port or cable connection could be damaged

If your device isn’t responding at all, check out what to do if your iPad won’t turn on.

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FAQ

Why isn’t my iPad showing up in iTunes or Finder?

Make sure your iPad is unlocked and you tapped Trust This Computer. If it still doesn’t appear, try a different cable or USB port.

Do I need iTunes to sync my iPad?

Only on Windows or older Macs. Newer Macs use Finder to manage and sync your iPad.

How do I update iTunes on Windows?

Open the Microsoft Store and check for updates, or in iTunes click Help > Check for Updates if you installed it from Apple’s website.

Can a bad cable stop my iPad from syncing?

Yes. A damaged or non-certified cable can prevent your iPad from connecting properly.

What if my iPad still won’t sync after trying everything?

It could be a hardware issue with the port or a deeper software problem. At that point, it’s worth getting it checked by a pro.