Step-by-step guide to jailbreaking iPad

Last Updated: Mar 10, 2024 by

Are you tired of the limitations and restrictions that come with your iPad? Do you want to customize your device and have access to a wider range of apps and features? If so, jailbreaking your iPad may be the solution for you.

Jailbreaking is the process of removing the limitations imposed by Apple on their devices, allowing users to access and customize their device in ways that were previously not possible. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of jailbreaking your iPad.

What You Need to Know Before Jailbreaking

Before we dive into the process, there are a few things you need to know about jailbreaking your iPad.

Is Jailbreaking Legal?

Jailbreaking is not illegal, but it does void your device’s warranty. This means that if you encounter any issues with your device after jailbreaking, Apple will not provide support or repairs.

What Are the Risks?

Jailbreaking your iPad can also come with some risks. It can make your device more vulnerable to security threats and may cause instability or crashes. It is important to back up your device before jailbreaking in case anything goes wrong.

Which iPads Can Be Jailbroken?

Not all iPads can be jailbroken, and the process may vary depending on the model and iOS version. Here are the iPads that can be jailbroken:

  • iPad 2
  • iPad 3
  • iPad 4
  • iPad Air
  • iPad Air 2
  • iPad Mini
  • iPad Mini 2
  • iPad Mini 3
  • iPad Mini 4
  • iPad Pro (all models)

Step 1: Check Your iPad’s Compatibility

The first step is to check if your iPad is compatible with the jailbreaking process. As mentioned earlier, not all iPads can be jailbroken, and the process may vary depending on the model and iOS version.

To check your iPad’s compatibility, go to Settings > General > About and look for the “Model Name” and “iOS Version” sections. You can then search online for the jailbreaking method that is compatible with your device.

Step 2: Back Up Your iPad

Before proceeding with the jailbreaking process, it is crucial to back up your iPad. This will ensure that you have a copy of all your data in case anything goes wrong during the jailbreaking process.

To back up your iPad, connect it to your computer and open iTunes. Select your device and click on “Back Up Now” to start the backup process.

Step 3: Download the Jailbreaking Software

There are several jailbreaking software available, but the most popular and reliable one is called “Checkra1n”. You can download it from their official website.

Step 4: Put Your iPad into DFU Mode

DFU (Device Firmware Upgrade) mode is a state that allows your iPad to communicate with iTunes without loading the iOS operating system. This is necessary for the jailbreaking process.

To put your iPad into DFU mode, follow these steps:

  1. Connect your iPad to your computer and open iTunes.
  2. Turn off your iPad by holding down the power button and sliding the “Slide to Power Off” slider.
  3. Once your iPad is turned off, hold down the power button and the home button simultaneously for 10 seconds.
  4. After 10 seconds, release the power button while still holding the home button for an additional 5 seconds.
  5. Your iPad should now be in DFU mode.

Step 5: Jailbreak Your iPad

Now that your iPad is in DFU mode, it is time to jailbreak it using the Checkra1n software.

  1. Open the Checkra1n software on your computer.
  2. Click on “Start” and follow the on-screen instructions to put your iPad into DFU mode again.
  3. Once your iPad is in DFU mode, the jailbreaking process will begin.
  4. Wait for the process to complete, and your iPad will restart.

Step 6: Install Cydia

After the jailbreaking process is complete, you will see a new app on your iPad called “Checkra1n”. Open this app and click on “Cydia” to install it.

Cydia is an app store for jailbroken devices, where you can find a wide range of apps and tweaks that are not available on the official App Store.

Step 7: Customize Your iPad

Congratulations, your iPad is now jailbroken! You can now customize your device and install apps and tweaks that were previously not possible.

Some popular tweaks and apps available on Cydia include:

  • Winterboard: Allows you to customize your device’s theme and icons.
  • Activator: Lets you assign custom actions to different gestures and buttons on your device.
  • iFile: A file manager that allows you to access and modify system files on your device.
  • AppSync: Allows you to install apps that are not available on the App Store.

Step 8: Reboot Your iPad

After installing any tweaks or apps, it is recommended to reboot your iPad to ensure that everything is working correctly.

To reboot your iPad, hold down the power button and slide the “Slide to Power Off” slider. Once your iPad is turned off, hold down the power button to turn it back on.

Step 9: Enjoy Your Jailbroken iPad

Congratulations, you now have a fully jailbroken iPad! You can now enjoy the freedom and customization that comes with it.

Conclusion

Jailbreaking your iPad can be a fun and exciting experience, but it is important to understand the risks and limitations that come with it. Make sure to follow the steps carefully and always back up your device before proceeding with the jailbreaking process.

With this step-by-step guide, you should now be able to jailbreak your iPad and customize it to your heart’s content. Happy jailbreaking!

Gulrukh Ch

About the Author: Gulrukh Ch

Gulrukh Chaudhary, an accomplished digital marketer and technology writer with a passion for exploring the frontiers of innovation. Armed with a Master's degree in Information Technology, Gulrukh seamlessly blends her technical prowess with her creative flair, resulting in captivating insights into the world of emerging technologies. Discover more about her on her LinkedIn profile.