If you can't connect or sign in to iCloud (2024)

If you've set up your Apple ID and need help signing in to or using iCloud, follow these steps.

Get help signing into iCloud

Before you begin, check theApple System Status pageto make sure there are no outages or scheduled maintenances currently affecting iCloud and make sure that you’resigned in to iCloud with the same Apple IDon all of your devices.

If you can't remember your Apple ID or password

If you can't remember your Apple ID, check these settings and servicesto find it. If you've forgotten your Apple ID password, learn how to reset it.

If you get a message that your Apple ID is locked or disabled

If you or someone else enters your password, security questions, or other account information incorrectly too many times, your Apple ID automatically locks to protect your security and you can't sign in to any Apple services. Learn how to unlock your Apple ID.

If you can't sign in to iCloud.com

Learn what to do if you have trouble signing in to iCloud.com.

If you're not able to sign in using cellular data only

Make sure that your iPhone, iPad, or PChas a strong Internet connection and that you've turned on cellular dataon your iPhone or iPad by going to Settings > Cellular or Mobile Data. If this setting is off, you might not be able to access your Apple ID and iCloud when not connected to a Wi-Fi network.

If you're having trouble receiving verification codes, or your verification code is rejected

Learn how to get a verification code and sign in to iCloud with two-factor authentication. If your device is running iOS 8 or OS X Yosemite or earlier, sign in using two-step verification instead.

If you see a Could Not Create Apple ID or Could Not Set Up iCloud message

If you see one of these messages, it means that you have exceeded the number of new Apple IDs you can set up with iCloud on a single device in one year. Learn what to do.

Other password prompts you might see

If you are repeatedly prompted to enter your Apple ID password on your Mac or iOS device

If you have recently restored your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch from an iCloud backup, the restore may not have completed. Stay connected to a reliable Wi-Fi network and power source until the restore finishes. Follow these steps if iCloud Backup couldn't be completed or you can't restore.
If you recently changed your Apple ID password, you might need to update your sign-in information with iCloud services you use. Make sure that each service is using your updated sign-in information on your device.
Check if you have Automatic Downloads enabled. If there is content ready to be downloaded, you may be prompted to enter your Apple ID and password to continue. Learn how to resume interrupted downloads.
If you are an organizer, parent, or guardian of a Family Sharing group, check if the prompt is a request from a child family member to make an iTunes Store purchase. You can then approve or decline the request.

If you want to sign in to a third-party app but your password is rejected

If you want to access your iCloud information from a third-party app, you need to use an app-specific password. This helps protect your account by allowing you to sign in securely. Learn how to create and use app-specific passwords.

If you still need help

If you still need help signing in to iCloud, update your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch to thelatestversion of iOSor iPadOS,and your Mac tothe latest version of macOS.SeetheiCloud system requirementsfor more information.

Information about products not manufactured by Apple, or independent websites not controlled or tested by Apple, is provided without recommendation or endorsem*nt. Apple assumes no responsibility with regard to the selection, performance, or use of third-party websites or products. Apple makes no representations regarding third-party website accuracy or reliability. Contact the vendor for additional information.

Published Date:November 30, 2021

As a seasoned technology expert with a deep understanding of Apple's ecosystem, I've navigated the intricacies of Apple ID, iCloud, and related services extensively. My expertise is grounded in both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, making me well-equipped to guide users through the complexities of Apple's authentication and cloud storage systems.

Now, let's delve into the concepts covered in the provided article:

Apple System Status Page:
- This is a crucial resource to check for any ongoing outages or scheduled maintenance affecting iCloud services. Users are advised to consult this page before troubleshooting their sign-in issues.
Apple ID and Password Retrieval:
- If users forget their Apple ID or password, the article suggests checking specific settings and services to recover them. Additionally, it provides guidance on resetting a forgotten Apple ID password.
Apple ID Lockout:
- The article addresses situations where an Apple ID gets locked due to repeated incorrect entries. It outlines the steps to unlock the Apple ID for security reasons.
Troubleshooting iCloud.com Sign-In:
- Users encountering issues signing in to iCloud.com can find guidance on how to resolve these problems.
Cellular Data Usage for iCloud:
- To sign in to iCloud using cellular data, users are advised to ensure a strong internet connection and enable cellular data in device settings.
Verification Code Issues:
- The article covers problems related to receiving or rejecting verification codes, emphasizing the use of two-factor authentication for security.
Limitations on Apple ID Creation:
- Users are informed about limitations on creating new Apple IDs with iCloud on a single device within a year.
Additional Password Prompts:
- Various scenarios leading to repeated password prompts are explained, including iCloud backup restoration, Apple ID password changes, and Family Sharing approvals.
App-Specific Passwords:
- For third-party app access to iCloud, the article introduces the concept of app-specific passwords to enhance account security.
Updating Software Versions:
- Users are encouraged to update their devices to the latest iOS, iPadOS, and macOS versions for optimal iCloud functionality.
Disclaimer about Third-Party Products:
- The article concludes with a disclaimer, emphasizing that information about products not manufactured by Apple or independent websites is provided without endorsem*nt, and users should contact the respective vendor for additional information.

By offering this comprehensive breakdown, I aim to assist users in resolving Apple ID and iCloud-related issues with confidence and efficiency.