macOS Sidecar Error Code 3024: How to Fix It

Easy 15-45 minutes Medium Severity Verified July 2026
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Error Code
3024
Brand
macOS
Product Type
operating_system
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Fix Time
15-45 minutes
macOS Sidecar Error Code 3024 means your iPad disconnected from your Mac unexpectedly while being used as a second display or drawing tablet. This typically happens due to Wi-Fi or USB connection instability, software conflicts, outdated system software, or incompatible hardware settings. The good news is that this is almost always fixable without any professional help by following a few targeted troubleshooting steps.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 3024

  1. Restart Both Devices

    Save all open work on your Mac before restarting to avoid losing unsaved data.

  2. Check macOS and iPadOS Software Versions

    Back up your Mac using Time Machine and your iPad using iCloud or iTunes before installing major system updates.

  3. Verify Both Devices Are Signed Into the Same Apple ID

  4. Try a USB Cable Connection Instead of Wi-Fi

    Use only Apple-certified (MFi) cables. Non-certified cables may cause connection issues or charge inefficiently.

  5. Improve Wi-Fi Stability for Wireless Sidecar

  6. Reset Network Settings on Your iPad

    Resetting network settings will erase all saved Wi-Fi passwords and VPN configurations on your iPad. Write down any important Wi-Fi credentials before proceeding.

  7. Disable and Re-enable Sidecar via Display Settings

  8. Reset the NVRAM/PRAM and SMC on Your Mac

    Make sure your Mac is plugged into power before performing SMC and NVRAM resets on laptops.

  9. Create a New macOS User Account to Test for Profile Corruption

    Before deleting preference files, back up your Mac with Time Machine. Deleting the wrong files can affect other settings.

  10. Check iPad Model Compatibility

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When to Call a Professional

Contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store (Genius Bar) if Sidecar Error 3024 persists after completing all steps, especially if your Mac's Wi-Fi or Bluetooth hardware may be faulty. Signs of hardware issues include Wi-Fi or Bluetooth not appearing in System Settings at all, or your Mac failing to detect any wireless devices. You should also seek professional help if your Mac is running an older Intel CPU that is on Apple's incompatibility list for Sidecar, or if a recent macOS update appears to have broken core system functions beyond just Sidecar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Sidecar keep disconnecting on my Mac?
Sidecar disconnects most commonly due to unstable Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connections, the two devices being too far apart, a non-certified USB cable, mismatched Apple IDs, or outdated macOS/iPadOS software. Switching to a wired USB connection and ensuring both devices are updated usually resolves most recurring disconnection problems.
Does Sidecar work without Wi-Fi?
Yes. You can use Sidecar over a direct USB cable connection without needing Wi-Fi. Simply connect your iPad to your Mac with an Apple-certified cable, and your Mac should detect it as an available Sidecar display under System Settings > Displays or via the Screen Mirroring option in Control Center.
Why is Sidecar not showing up on my Mac at all?
If Sidecar doesn't appear as an option, your devices may not meet the requirements. Both devices must be signed into the same Apple ID with two-factor authentication enabled, Bluetooth must be on for wireless use, and your iPad model must be supported (iPad Pro all generations, iPad Air 3rd gen+, iPad 6th gen+, iPad mini 5th gen+). Also verify that your Mac model supports Sidecar — most Macs from 2019 and later are compatible.
Can a VPN cause Sidecar Error 3024?
Yes. Active VPN connections on your Mac can interfere with the local network communication that wireless Sidecar relies on, causing unexpected disconnections like Error 3024. Disable any active VPN by going to System Settings > Network, selecting your VPN connection, and turning it off before using Sidecar wirelessly.
Does resetting my iPad fix Sidecar error 3024?
Resetting network settings on your iPad (Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Reset > Reset Network Settings) can fix wireless Sidecar errors caused by corrupted Wi-Fi or Bluetooth configurations. A full factory reset is rarely necessary and should only be considered as a last resort after all other steps have been tried, as it will erase all data on your iPad.

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