Remove Device Management iPad – How to Fix It

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If your iPad is controlled by Mobile Device Management (MDM), certain settings, apps, and features may be restricted. This guide explains different ways to remove device management from your iPad and regain full control.

Check If Your iPad Has Device Management

MDM is usually installed by workplaces, schools, or organizations. To check if your iPad is managed:

  1. Open Settings
  2. Go to General > VPN & Device Management
  3. If an MDM profile is listed, your iPad is managed

If the MDM profile restricts device settings, you may need permission from the organization to remove it.

Remove Device Management from Settings

If you have the necessary permissions, you can manually remove MDM from your iPad.

Steps to Remove MDM Profile
  1. Open Settings
  2. Go to General > VPN & Device Management
  3. Tap the MDM profile
  4. Select Remove Management
  5. Enter the MDM password (if required)
  6. Restart the iPad to apply changes

If the option to remove the profile is unavailable, your iPad may be under strict supervision.

Remove Device Management Using iTunes or Finder

If the MDM profile prevents manual removal, resetting your iPad through iTunes or Finder may work.

Steps to Reset iPad Using iTunes/Finder
  1. Connect your iPad to a computer
  2. Open iTunes (Windows) or Finder (Mac)
  3. Select your iPad and click Restore iPad
  4. Wait for the process to complete and set up your iPad as new

If MDM is enforced by Apple School Manager or Apple Business Manager, the profile may reapply after resetting.

Remove MDM Using DFU Mode

If a standard reset does not work, DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode may remove the MDM profile.

Steps to Reset iPad via DFU Mode
  1. Connect iPad to a computer and open iTunes (Windows) or Finder (Mac)
  2. Put your iPad into DFU mode:
    • iPads with Face ID: Press and release Volume Up, press and release Volume Down, then hold the Power button until the screen goes black. While holding the Power button, press and hold Volume Down for 5 seconds, then release the Power button but keep holding Volume Down for another 10 seconds.
    • iPads with Home Button: Hold Home + Power button for 10 seconds, then release Power but keep holding Home.
  3. iTunes or Finder will detect the iPad in DFU mode
  4. Click Restore iPad to erase all data and settings
  5. Set up the iPad as new

If the device is supervised, MDM may reinstall after setup.

Use Third-Party Tools to Remove MDM

Several third-party tools claim to remove MDM without a password. Some commonly used options include:

  • Tenorshare 4uKey
  • iMyFone LockWiper
  • Dr.Fone – Unlock (iOS)

These tools may work but should be used with caution, as MDM removal without authorization could violate company policies.

Prevent MDM from Reinstalling After Reset

If the iPad is linked to Apple School Manager or Apple Business Manager, MDM may automatically reinstall after a factory reset. To prevent this:

  1. Contact the organization and request device removal from Apple Business Manager or School Manager
  2. Use a different Apple ID during setup to avoid linking to the MDM profile

If the device was provided by a company or school, removing MDM without permission may lead to restrictions or legal consequences.