I'm not an Apple Expert, but I do know that certain secured applications do require the 4 digit passcode to lock the device and safeguard your data in case the iPad falls into the hands of someone else. Using an incorrect passcode 10 times will cause the iPad to be 'wiped' of all data.

Why not use iTunes and back the data (pictures, documents, contacts, mail settings, ect) to your PC? It's not only for music, you choose what you want to back up when you are prompted to set up sync and your settings may be backed up also.

The lost apps might have been incompatible with the IOS update or maybe the device was wiped. Not sure about the password that is sometimes not accepted. Is it asking for her Apple ID password or email password?

P.s. the update is frustrating. We did one and stopped. Apple stores have teack support but make an appointment to avoid the wait.

I read today that IOS 8.1.3 offers the option to downgrade to 8.1.2 for a limited time if you aren't happy with 8.1.3. Where is the OP?

I get kind of frustrated when I take the time to assist someone and they never respond. It's too much like work with no pay :-)

Maybe the OP will find their way back.

It's easy to get lost. If it helps, I appreciate your help on that undo of an update. Gonna try that....

I was here pk. I guess I should have let you know that the backup was specifically asking for the apple id password. I only brought up email because I found no contacts (but I also pointed out that I hadn't tried to link emails in any way). I also now see that there is an off setting on a 'settings' button for email. I am not sure how she sees her mail. Probably directly via Safari but I do see an email app right on her first page trey below the regular apps. Probably way more info than needed since this was not really an email question. Looking back, I now see that I wasn't clear about what password was wanted; sorry. My general question was about the whole purpose of this kind of backup. It appeared (and still does) that she may not have had anything to backup because she didn't really use itunes for paid music (and yesterday I saw something that implied it didn't do that either, I suppose because apple really only has pointers to the music and always remembers your apple id with those pointers). I was more concerned that perhaps each system update might wipe all apps and perhaps other stuff. As far as I can tell, it certainly didn't wipe all apps out (she still has some), and I see no reason it would clear specific ones.

I was waiting for another response and to see if I got a backup. I can't really tell because it doesn't say so. It was not asking to be backed up yesterday (or today) and I can't find where it is indicated. The new update changed stuff on icloud and wanted new legal acceptance (i gave it) but that was after I attempted the backup. BTW I actually read a little of the legal stuff and it included that icloud could wipe your backup if you didn't backup for 120 days!!!

Anyway, I still don't really understand the purpose of this backup system. While attempting to follow various directions, I got messages that suggest if there are problems (I don't think there actually were) that I should Reset the ipad. I am suspecting that perhaps that is exactly when the backup would be needed because the Reset Would wipe everything back to a new pad. Not sure of that either.

The backups are more than just backing up data. They update any apps you might have. You can store stuff on the cloud though we tend to back up to a hard drive instead. This frees up space. DD's iPad was full due to pics and movies. We couldn't back it up until we freed space.

I haven't used iTunes to buy anything either. I think it's just an secure entrance into your account so you can backup, store and update.

I don't find that to be a worry and we are a worrying household. :)

Yes, I suppose ITunes can't hurt (we have to have the account anyway) and only help. I will have to determine how to use it for that purpose. I will google around the apple area.

http://www.apple.com/retail/geniusbar/

From my limited experience with downloading apps from iTunes (whether free or purchased), those apps remain connected to the apple password that is used. If for some reason an app is deleted from the iPad - which has happened to me! :) -, simply return to iTunes and you will find the app waiting for you. It's already yours...

Egads, the dreaded flashlight app is still lurking.

Thanks Chas for the reply!

The importance of backups is to return your iPad to the condition that it's in at the time of the backup. All of the apps, settings, any accounts and saved passwords and contacts can be backed up and restored with an iTunes sync. I don't know anything about backing up to iCloud, but have assisted with iTunes.

Sometimes functionality is affected during a system update of the IOS and requires a reset of the device to 'like new' to correct. If and when that occurs a backup will make returning to your (or your wife's) familiar setup a breeze.

iTunes is free, the sync is also free and is installed on your home pc or mac.

I imagine that the lost apps were incompatible with the system update, similar to the way a firefox browser update disables add ins that are incompatible.

meyerk9, I like the flashlight app on my Android. It's handy when I've forgotten to leave the porch light on :-)