Syncing your iPad wirelessly makes managing music, photos, apps, and backups incredibly convenient. Instead of connecting your device with a USB cable every time, you can allow your iPad to sync automatically over Wi-Fi whenever it’s on the same network as your computer.
This guide shows you exactly how to set up wireless syncing on your iPad using iTunes (Windows) or Finder (macOS Catalina and later).
What You Need Before You Start
Before enabling wireless sync, make sure:
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Your iPad and computer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network
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You have the latest version of iTunes (Windows/macOS Mojave or earlier)
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You’re using Finder on macOS Catalina or newer
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You have a USB cable for the initial setup (required only once)
How to Set Up iPad Wireless Sync (Windows & Older macOS Using iTunes)
Step 1: Connect the iPad to Your Computer
Use your Lightning or USB-C cable to connect the iPad to your computer.
Step 2: Open iTunes
Launch iTunes and wait for your iPad to appear in the top-left device list.
Step 3: Access iPad Settings
Click on your iPad icon to open the summary page.
Step 4: Enable Wireless Sync
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Scroll down to the Options section.
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Check the box that says “Sync with this iPad over Wi-Fi.”
Step 5: Apply Changes
Click the Apply or Sync button at the bottom-right to save settings.
Step 6: Disconnect the Cable
Unplug the iPad — wireless syncing is now enabled.
How to Set Up iPad Wireless Sync (macOS Catalina and Newer Using Finder)
Apple removed iTunes on newer macOS versions, but wireless sync still works through Finder.
Step 1: Plug in Your iPad with a Cable
Connect it once via USB or USB-C.
Step 2: Open Finder
Your iPad will appear under Locations in the Finder sidebar.
Step 3: Select Your iPad
Click it to open device settings.
Step 4: Turn On Wi-Fi Sync
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Scroll to the General tab.
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Check the option “Show this iPad when on Wi-Fi.”
Step 5: Click Apply
Save the settings and eject your iPad.
Step 6: Remove the Cable
Your iPad can now sync wirelessly using Finder.
How Wireless Sync Works
Once wireless sync is turned on, your iPad will automatically sync when:
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It is connected to power
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It’s on the same Wi-Fi network as your computer
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iTunes or Finder is running
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The iPad is awake or charging
You can also launch a wireless sync manually.
How to Sync Your iPad Over Wi-Fi Manually
From the iPad:
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Go to Settings
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Tap General
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Tap iTunes Wi-Fi Sync
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Choose Sync Now
From the Computer:
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Open iTunes or Finder
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Select your iPad
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Click Sync
Troubleshooting Tips
If wireless sync doesn’t work, try:
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Ensuring both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network
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Restarting your iPad and computer
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Updating iTunes or macOS
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Reconnecting with a USB cable and re-enabling Wi-Fi sync
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Disabling VPN if enabled
Final Thoughts
Setting up wireless sync on your iPad saves time and makes managing your content effortless. Once configured, your iPad will back up, transfer photos, sync music, and update files automatically whenever it’s on your home network. It’s a simple setup that delivers huge long-term convenience.