How to Connect an iPad to a Windows PC

PDF download Download Article
An easy-to-follow guide to sync your iPad to your computer
PDF download Download Article


The iPad is one of the most popular consumer electronic devices on the market. You can use your iPad to browse the internet, read a book, listen to music, play games, check your mail, instant message, and more - all at the tip of your fingertips! Connecting your iPad to your Windows PC is very easy, and will allow you to sync content from your iTunes library to your iPad.

Steps

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/30\/Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/30\/Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/aid4508945-v4-728px-Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You will need to install iTunes before connecting your iPad to your computer. [1] iTunes can be downloaded for free from the iTunes website. See this guide for more details on installing iTunes.
    • If you already have iTunes installed, ensure that it is up to date .
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6a\/Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/6a\/Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/aid4508945-v4-728px-Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Your iPad will need to be powered on in order to connect to your computer. If the iPad is off, press and hold the Power button for a few seconds until the Apple logo appears. If the iPad is out of battery, let it charge before connecting it to the computer.
    • The iPad will charge while connected to the computer, but very slowly.
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/61\/Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/61\/Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/aid4508945-v4-728px-Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Use the charging cable that came with your iPad, or a replacement cable that works with Apple devices. [2] Make sure to plug the USB into a port directly on your computer; plugging it into a USB hub may cause connection problems.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e7\/Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e7\/Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/aid4508945-v4-728px-Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The first time you connect your iPad to a Windows computer, Windows will install a few drivers. This process is automatic, but may take a few moments
    • Your Windows computer will need to have internet access in order to install the iPad drivers.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/27\/Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/27\/Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/aid4508945-v4-728px-Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":342,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":541,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    iTunes will usually open automatically when the iPad is connected to the computer. If it doesn't, you can open iTunes from the Start menu or by using the desktop shortcut to start interacting with your iPad.
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a2\/Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a2\/Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/aid4508945-v4-728px-Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":341,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":539,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    When you connect your iPad to your computer for the first time, you will be prompted to run the first time setup. Don't worry if you've been using your iPad already, this doesn't erase anything. All you will be doing is giving your iPad a name.
  7. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/eb\/Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/eb\/Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/aid4508945-v4-728px-Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Once iTunes is open, you will be able to select your iPad from the "Devices" section of the left sidebar. If the sidebar isn't visible, click View → Hide Sidebar . Selecting your iPad will allow you to manage the content on it.
    • If your iPad is not showing up in the "Devices" menu, check to see that it is turned on. If it is still not connecting, you may need to put it into Recovery Mode .
  8. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/dd\/Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/dd\/Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/aid4508945-v4-728px-Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Once you've selected your iPad, use the tabs along the top of the iTunes window to manage the content that you want to sync to it. You can add music, movies, apps, books, podcasts and more. In order to add content to your iPad, it will need to already be in your iTunes library.
    • See this guide for detailed instructions on syncing your files to your iPad.
    • See this guide for instructions on adding apps to your iPad using iTunes.
  9. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8c\/Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/8c\/Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/aid4508945-v4-728px-Connect-an-iPad-to-a-Windows-PC-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":341,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":539,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    After you are finished syncing content to your iPad, right-click on it in the "Devices" section of the sidebar. Select Eject . This will allow you to safely disconnect the iPad from the computer.
    10. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    How do I get my PC to recognize my iPad?
    Gonzalo Martinez
    Computer & Phone Repair Specialist
    Gonzalo Martinez is the President of CleverTech, a tech repair business in San Jose, California founded in 2014. CleverTech LLC specializes in repairing Apple products. CleverTech pursues environmental responsibility by recycling aluminum, display assemblies, and the micro components on motherboards to reuse for future repairs. On average, they save 2 lbs - 3 lbs more electronic waste daily than the average computer repair store.
    Gonzalo Martinez
    Computer & Phone Repair Specialist
    Expert Answer
    You first have to install iTunes. Then you can plug your iPad into your computer with the charging cable that came with it.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 5 Helpful 4
  • Question
    Is it normal for an iPad to show up as a drive when connected to a Windows 10 PC via USB port?
    Community Answer
    Yes, that is normal.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 3 Helpful 8
  • Question
    How do I connect the device to the PC without downloading iTunes?
    Community Answer
    It's impossible to do so, unless you want to upload your pictures only. Basically, plug in your iPad, and on the device, select "Allow device." You should be able to access them after you do so.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 9 Helpful 19
See more answers
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Reset an iPad Without the Password
      iPad Battery Draining Fast? 8 Quick Solutions
      How to Tell if Your iPad Is Too Old to Update
      2 Ways to Screen Mirror Your iPhone to iPad
      A Complete Guide to Jailbreak an iPad, iPad Pro, or Mini
      How to See if Someone Read Your Text on iPhone & iPad
      3 Simple Ways to Completely Power Down Your iPad or iPad Pro
      7 Ways to Transfer Files to iPad from PC or Mac
      How to
      Use Smart View on iPhone or iPad
      Use Your iPad to Stream Video or Mirror Your Screen to a TV
      How to Turn Off AirPlay: The Complete Guide
      How to
      Get a Free iPad
      A Quick Guide to Transfer Photos from an iPad to Your Computer
      2 Simple Ways to Reboot an iPad + Common Fixes
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ Gonzalo Martinez. Computer & Phone Repair Specialist. Expert Interview. 4 May 2021.
      2. ↑ Gonzalo Martinez. Computer & Phone Repair Specialist. Expert Interview. 4 May 2021.

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      1. Install iTunes.
      2. Turn on the iPad.
      3. Connect the iPad to the PC with a USB cord.
      4. Install the drivers.
      5. Open iTunes.
      6. Click the iPad button.
      7. Click Sync .
      8. Eject when finished.

      Did this summary help you?
      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 313,266 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • George Gaskell

        Feb 3, 2017

        "Clear, precise, unambiguous step by step guide to doing exactly what I have long wanted to do. "
      More reader stories Hide reader stories
      Share your story

      Is this article up to date?

      Advertisement