A passcode protects your iPhone 5 if it is lost or stolen and is required for features like Apple Pay on newer phones. You can turn one on in Settings and choose how quickly the phone asks for it after locking. The iPhone 5 can only run up to iOS 10, so it no longer receives security updates.
Quick Answer
Open Settings, Passcode, tap Turn Passcode On, enter a six-digit passcode (or tap Passcode Options for four digits or letters), and confirm it. Set Require Passcode to Immediately for the best protection.
How to Require a Passcode to Unlock an iPhone 5
- Open Settings and tap Passcode.
- Tap Turn Passcode On.
- Enter a passcode. Tap Passcode Options for a four-digit code or an alphanumeric code.
- Enter the passcode again to confirm.
- Tap Require Passcode and choose Immediately so the phone locks as soon as the screen turns off.
Passcode Choices
| Type | Strength |
|---|---|
| 4-digit | Basic |
| 6-digit | Stronger, the default |
| Custom numeric | Longer numbers |
| Custom alphanumeric | Strongest |
| Erase Data after 10 attempts | Optional extra protection |
Troubleshooting
- Require Passcode is locked to Immediately: this happens when certain features or profiles require it.
- You forgot the passcode: you must restore the iPhone with a computer, which erases it, then restore from a backup.
- To protect individual apps on newer iPhones, see how to lock an app on iPhone.
- For other privacy settings, read how to control remote images in Mail.
Related: unlock an AT&T iPhone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a passcode required to use the iPhone 5?
No, but it is strongly recommended.
Should I keep using an iPhone 5?
It no longer receives updates, so avoid using it for banking or sensitive accounts.
Can I use Touch ID?
The iPhone 5 has no Touch ID; the iPhone 5s and later do.
Summary
- Open Settings, Passcode.
- Turn Passcode On.
- Choose a strong passcode.
- Set Require Passcode to Immediately.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.