If you want to keep your iPad or iPhone safe from prying eyes, you’ll need to set up a passcode. It’s a 4- to 6-digit password used to grant access to your device, similar to the code you use for a debit or credit card. Here’s what you need to know about this feature.

iOS devices prompt you to choose a passcode during the setup process, but you can easily skip this. If you don’t set one during the initialization process, you can enable the feature at any time. The passcode also works in conjunction with the Touch ID fingerprint sensor. If you have one for your iPad, you can use Touch ID to bypass it and unlock your device. This saves you the time of typing in your passcode while still protecting it from others.

Here's how to choose an access code if you didn't create one during installation:

Open the Settings app on your iPad or iPhone.