Force restarting is usually a good first step, but sometimes it just won’t cut it. One thing to remember that not everyone mentions—before diving into third-party software or more invasive solutions, double-check your backup status. If you’ve got a recent iCloud or iTunes backup, you might actually be better off going for a complete restore, even if it means re-downloading some apps and data.
If only restarting doesn’t work and you’re connected to a computer already, another thing worth trying is updating your device software via Recovery Mode before resorting to DFU mode. Sometimes simply updating the iOS can shake loose whatever’s causing the hang-up without nuking your data. With the iPad connected, follow the steps to get it into Recovery Mode and try updating from there, not restoring just yet.
Calling out your mention of Disk Drill, yeah, it’s pretty robust but also important to weigh in that Disk Drill from https://www.cleverfiles.com/ is well-suited for both Mac and Windows users and supports multiple file systems. However, one downside to consider—even though it’s user-friendly, the software can only recover data that hasn’t been overwritten yet. So, use this as soon as you realize you’re in a bind, don’t wait too long.
If you’re skeptical about Disk Drill, I’ve had decent luck with EaseUS MobiSaver. It’s kinda in the same league but tends to be a bit easier for folks who aren’t too tech-savvy. The interface is straightforward, and you get a good preview of files before recovery. Again, like the others, it’s not free, so you’re gonna pay for the full functionality.
Before taking drastic measures like DFU Mode – and here’s where I differ a bit from @techchizkid – not every case actually benefits from going through the most severe restore process. If the data is especially important, it’s sometimes better to consult professional data recovery services. These people have the tools and experience to recover hard-to-get files. Apple Support could also provide more guided assistance specific to your iPad model.
One often overlooked step – network issues can sometimes cause data recovery to become problematic. Ensure your WiFi connection or your Ethernet cables (if using a Mac or a PC to facilitate this) are stable. Cut the guesswork by restarting the router as well. You’d be surprised how many issues boil down to something as simple.
A few things people forget:
- Use a different cable or USB port.
- Try a different computer if you can – sometimes different setups can lead to different outcomes.
And hey, don’t overlook the quirky but sometimes effective trick of cooling down or warming up your device. I’ve heard from pals who just left the device off for a bit, then restarted, and bang – all systems go. Sounds silly, but there’s some logic in hardware reaching thermal equilibrium before attempting another operation.
Just don’t let it continue for too long as extended recovery mode can potentially lead to infinite recovery loops or worse, hardware-related issues if there’s persistent interference or a crash.
In sum, try a systematic approach:
- Force restart
- iTunes/Finder connection and update attempt before restore
- Third-party software like Disk Drill or EaseUS
- DFU mode (last resort)
- Professional help
Whatever you do, remember to back up your device regularly to avoid sticking situations like this. And good luck – hang in there, most of the time you can get those important files back!