iPad back up
Can I back up my iPad to an external drive?
iPad (9th generation)
iOS/iPadOS doesn’t natively support backup to external media.
This support page outlines the supported backup methods for iPad and iPhone:
How to back up your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support
Native iOS/iPadOS backup and restore processes are dependent upon iCloud, or connection to either Windows PC (with iTunes for Windows installed) or a Mac (with iTunes or Finder - as appropriate for the installed version of macOS).
Natively supported methods offer full system backup - consisting of data and device settings.
How to back up your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support
It is possible, however, to use a third-party App to backup data (not device settings) to a variety of external storage options - including third-party Cloud services, external media devices and network storage. One App that comes readily to mind is FileBrowser Professional by Stratospherix:
https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/filebrowser-professional/id854618029
You would be well advised to review the extensive online Manual and help files to determine suitability for your needs.
