Updating your iPad
Normally the MINOR Updates to the iPad Operating System (know as iOS) are uneventful and help fix minor bugs in the software. From time to time, Apple will announce MAJOR Updates (typically whole number updates like iOS 11 or iOS 12).
DO NOT INSTALL MAJOR UPDATES AS SOON AS THEY COME OUT!
When to do MINOR Updates: these can normally be done at any time. However, it is critical to back up your iPad before running the update
When to do MAJOR Updates: these can cause MAJOR problems when done too early. The best practice for major updates is to do them after they have gone through several revisions (typically the second revision - i.e. version 11.2 or 12.2)
Performing iOS Updates (on the device)
BACK UP Your iPad - We see 10-15% of devices crash. A backup is CRUCIAL!
Unlock your iPad (all SBA Staff use at least a 4 digit passcode lock)
Plug in your iPad to the charging cable (must have at least 50% to run the update)
Select the following:
System Preferences -> General -> Software Update -> Update
Follow any on-screen instructions
Test all your critical applications
Note: these instructions also work for updating your iPhone
Note: If you have any errors that state you do not have enough space to perform the update, follow the instructions below to update through iTunes.
Performing iOS Updates (through iTunes)
BACK UP Your iPad - We see 10-15% of devices crash. A backup is CRITICAL!
Unlock your iPad (all SBA Staff use at least a 4 digit Passcode Lock)
Plug in your iPad to the charging cable (must have at least 50% to run the update)
Once you see your iPad show up in iTunes:
Test all your critical applications