Mobile Device Management, or MDM, is software that schools and workplaces put on iPads to control what you can do with them. If you got an iPad from work or school, or bought a used one, you might find it has MDM restrictions that limit your access to settings and apps. You can remove MDM from your iPad by going to Settings, then General, then Device Management, and deleting the management profile—but you'll need your device passcode to do it.
Removing MDM gives you full control over your iPad again. You can change settings, download apps, and use your device however you want. Before you remove MDM, make sure you understand what it is and whether you have permission to take it off.
This guide explains how to remove MDM through settings, what to do if you don't have the password, and how to prepare before you start. Whether you own the device or need to check with your IT department first, you'll find answers here.
Your iPad deserves protection that matches its versatility. By exploring our iPad Cases With Stand collection, you'll find cases that prop up your device at perfect viewing angles while shielding it from damage
What Is MDM on iPad?
MDM is software that lets organizations control and monitor iPads they give to employees or students. It adds restrictions to your device and allows remote management of settings, apps, and data.
What Is Mobile Device Management (MDM)?
Mobile Device Management is security software that organizations install on iPads. It gives IT departments control over devices they own or distribute.
When your iPad has MDM, the organization can push settings and rules to your device from a remote location. This happens through an MDM profile installed on your iPad, which connects your device to their management system.
MDM works in the background. You might not notice it's there until you try to change certain settings or download specific apps. The software communicates with a central server that manages all the devices.
Why Organizations Use MDM on iPads
Schools and companies use MDM to protect their data and make sure devices are used properly. When they give you an iPad, they want to keep it secure and following their rules.
MDM helps organizations install required apps on all devices at once. They can also update software across many iPads without handling each one.
Your employer or school can use MDM to locate lost devices or wipe data remotely if an iPad is stolen. This protects sensitive information from getting into the wrong hands.
Restrictions Imposed by MDM Profiles
MDM restrictions can limit what you do with your iPad. Common restrictions include blocking certain apps from being downloaded or preventing you from deleting specific work apps.
Some MDM profiles stop you from changing settings like Wi-Fi networks or VPN configurations. You might not be able to use AirDrop or access the camera in certain apps. Organizations can disable iCloud backup or prevent you from adding personal email accounts.
Typical MDM restrictions include:
- Blocking app installations from the App Store
- Preventing changes to network settings
- Disabling certain built-in features like Siri or FaceTime
- Requiring specific passcode requirements
- Restricting access to certain websites
The specific restrictions depend on what your organization chooses to enforce through the MDM profile.
Scratches can damage your newly unrestricted iPad's screen. Read our article on Apple Pencil Scratching iPad Screen? Causes & Fixes to learn prevention strategies and repair solutions.
How to Remove MDM from iPad Through Settings
You can remove MDM from your iPad directly through the Settings app if you know your device passcode. This method works when you have the right permissions to delete the MDM profile from your device.
Locating the MDM Profile on Your iPad
Open the Settings app on your iPad. It looks like a gray gear icon.
Tap on General in the left menu. Scroll down until you see either Device Management or Profiles & Device Management. The exact name depends on your iOS version.
Tap this option to see all management profiles installed on your device. Your MDM profile will be listed here with the name of your school or organization. If you don't see this option, your iPad might not have an MDM profile installed.
Steps to Remove MDM Using Device Settings
Tap the MDM profile you want to remove. You'll see details about the profile and what it controls.
Look for the Remove Management button, usually in red near the bottom. Tap this button to begin the removal process.
Your iPad will ask for your device passcode. Enter it carefully.
The system might ask you to confirm your choice. Tap Remove again if prompted. Your iPad will delete the profile immediately. No restart is needed.
What to Do If Removal Option Is Unavailable
The Remove Management button might be grayed out or missing if your organization has locked the profile settings.
Contact your IT department or school administrator if you should have access. They can remove the MDM profile remotely or give you the password to remove it yourself. You need official permission to remove MDM from devices you don't own.
Back up your iPad before trying other methods. Some third-party tools claim they can bypass MDM, but Apple Support warns most of these services don't work as advertised. The safest approach is to work with whoever manages your device.
Protect your case-free iPad from damage during removal. Our guide How To Take Off iPad Case Easily Without Damage shows safe techniques for changing cases without scratching your device.
Bypassing and Removing MDM Without Password
If you don't have the MDM password, there are still ways to remove restrictions from your iPad. These methods include using specialized software tools or performing factory resets, but each has different levels of risk and effectiveness.
Removing MDM from iPad Without Password
You can remove MDM from iPad without a password using third-party software designed for this purpose. These tools bypass the authentication requirements that normally prevent MDM removal.
The process usually involves connecting your iPad to a computer with a USB cable. The software then communicates with your device to disable the MDM lock screen or remove the management profile. Most tools can do this in a few minutes.
Some popular options include Tenorshare 4uKey and PassFab iPhone Unlocker. These programs claim to bypass MDM with a simple interface and don't require technical knowledge.
Many of these tools are paid software. While some offer free trials, full features usually require buying a license.
MDM Bypass Tools and Software Solutions
Several MDM removal tools are available with different features and success rates:
Tenorshare 4uKey lets you bypass MDM by selecting "Bypass MDM" after connecting your iPad. You'll need to trust the computer and enter your device passcode if prompted.
PassFab iPhone Unlocker offers a similar one-click bypass feature and works on current iOS versions.
Other alternatives include LockWiper iPhone Unlocker and various online tools. Research any tool carefully before using it. Download software only from official websites to avoid malware or security risks.
Most reputable tools support all iPad models and recent iOS versions. They usually preserve your data during MDM removal, but this is not guaranteed.
Important Considerations and Legal Implications
Whether it's legal to remove MDM depends on your situation and ownership of the device. Bypassing MDM on a device you own is usually acceptable, but removing MDM from a school or company-owned iPad without permission can be illegal.
You should only bypass MDM if:
- You purchased a used iPad that still has the previous owner's MDM
- You own the device outright and left the organization that managed it
- You have legitimate ownership and the right to modify the device
Removing MDM without authorization could violate company policies, school rules, or laws about unauthorized access to computer systems.
If your employer or school owns the iPad, contact the IT administrator. They can remove the device from their MDM system through the admin console.
Factory Reset and Its Limitations
A factory reset might seem like a way to remove remote management, but it often doesn't work for MDM-locked devices. You can erase your iPad through Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Erase All Content and Settings.
However, if your iPad's serial number is registered in Apple Business Manager or Apple School Manager, the MDM lock returns after the reset.
When you set up the erased iPad, it contacts Apple's servers during activation. Apple then tells your device it's still managed, and the Remote Management screen appears again. This is because the MDM enrollment is tied to the device's hardware ID, not just the software.
Factory reset only works permanently if the device was never enrolled in a Device Enrollment Program (DEP). For most organizational iPads purchased after 2019, this method is only a temporary solution.
Wondering about security now that MDM is removed? By reading our guide Can iPads Get Viruses? What You Need to Know, you'll understand how to keep your device safe from malware and threats.
Tips, Preparation, and Best Practices for MDM Removal
Before you remove MDM from your iPad, take steps to protect your data and make the process smooth. Backing up your device, reaching out for help, and protecting your iPad afterward are important for successful MDM removal.
Backing Up Your iPad Before Removing MDM
Always create a backup before attempting iPad MDM removal. This protects your photos, messages, apps, and settings if something goes wrong.
You have two main backup options. iCloud backup works wirelessly if you're connected to Wi-Fi. Go to Settings > Your Name > iCloud > iCloud Backup and tap Back Up Now. Make sure you have enough iCloud storage space.
iTunes or Finder backup gives you a complete copy on your computer. Connect your iPad to your Mac or PC with a USB cable. On a Mac with macOS Catalina or newer, open Finder. On older Macs or PCs, open iTunes. Select your device and click Back Up Now.
Check that your backup completed successfully before moving forward. You can verify this by looking at the backup date and time in your settings or computer.
Contacting Administrators or Apple Support
Contact your organization's IT department or Apple Support for safe MDM removal. If your iPad belongs to a school or company, contact your administrator first. They can remove the MDM profile remotely or give you permission to remove it.
Apple Support can help if you bought a used iPad with MDM still installed. They'll need proof of purchase to verify ownership. Be ready to show your receipt or other documentation.
Don't use third-party removal services that promise to bypass MDM without passwords. Most of these are scams or could harm your device. Apple Support may deny suspicious requests, but they are your best option for legitimate help.
Keeping Your Device Secure Post-Removal
After removing MDM from your iPad, set up new security measures. Create a strong passcode with at least six digits, or use Face ID or Touch ID for added protection.
Enable Find My iPad by going to Settings > Your Name > Find My > Find My iPad. This helps you locate your device if it gets lost and prevents others from using it without your Apple ID.
Update your iPad to the latest iOS version. Go to Settings > General > Software Update and install any available updates. These updates include important security patches.
Review your app permissions and only download apps from the App Store. Avoid clicking suspicious links or connecting to unknown Wi-Fi networks without a VPN.
Maximize your iPad's potential after removing restrictions. Check out our article Best iPad Pro Apps to Power Up Your Device to discover apps you can now freely install.
Protect Your iPad with CHESONA
Now that you've removed MDM restrictions and regained full control of your iPad, it's time to protect your device from physical damage. CHESONA offers premium protection designed for every iPad model and use case.
- Heavy Duty iPad Case - Military-grade protection with reinforced corners and shock-absorbing materials. Perfect if you use your iPad in demanding environments or want maximum drop protection.
- iPad Keyboard Case With Touchpad - Combine protection with productivity. These cases feature full keyboards with integrated touchpads, turning your iPad into a laptop replacement while keeping it safe from bumps and scratches.
- Lightweight iPad Pro Case - Get excellent protection without added bulk. These slim cases defend against scratches and minor drops while maintaining your iPad's sleek profile and portability.
Wrap Up
Removing MDM from your iPad restores full control over your device, letting you customize settings and download apps freely. Whether you use the Settings method with your passcode or need help from your IT department, always back up your data first and verify you have the right to remove the profile.
Once MDM is gone, protect your iPad with strong security measures and regular updates. For complete device protection after MDM removal, consider CHESONA cases that shield your iPad from drops, scratches, and everyday wear while giving you full access to all features.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the steps to delete MDM profiles on an iPad?
Open the Settings app on your iPad and tap on General. Scroll down until you see Device Management or Profiles & Device Management.
Tap on the MDM profile you want to remove. You'll see a Remove Management button at the bottom of the screen.
Tap Remove Management and enter your device passcode when prompted. The MDM profile will be deleted from your iPad once you confirm.
Can I disable MDM restrictions without the admin password?
You need the device passcode to remove MDM profiles through the Settings app. The admin password for the MDM system is different from your device passcode.
If you don't have the device passcode, you won't be able to remove the MDM profile through normal methods. Contact your IT department or the organization that manages the device for help.
Is it possible to completely erase MDM software from my iPad?
Removing the MDM profile through Settings deletes the management software from your iPad. Once you complete the removal process, the MDM restrictions and monitoring will stop.
Your personal data stays on the device after removing MDM. Back up your iPad before starting the process to be safe.
The MDM profile can be reinstalled later if you have the configuration profile or help from your IT department.
What should I do if I can't remove the MDM profile from my settings?
Check if you have the correct device passcode. You must enter the passcode that unlocks your iPad to remove the MDM profile.
If you don't see Device Management in your General settings, your iPad might not have an MDM profile installed. It could also be labeled differently depending on your iOS version.
Contact your IT department or the person who set up the device if you continue having trouble. Apple Support can also help, though they may ask questions to verify the device belongs to you.
Are there any legal implications of removing an MDM profile from an iPad?
Removing MDM from your personal iPad is legal if you own the device. You have the right to control devices that belong to you.
If the iPad belongs to your work or school, you need permission before removing MDM. The organization owns the device and manages it.
Removing MDM without permission from a work or school device could violate your agreement with that organization. This might lead to consequences like losing access to the device or other penalties.
How can I remove an MDM profile if I no longer have access to the original admin account?
You don't need the MDM admin account to remove the profile from your iPad. You only need your device passcode to complete the removal through Settings.
If your organization requires the admin account for removal, contact your IT department for assistance. They can help you remove the profile or give you the access you need.
