How to Enter DFU Mode on iPhone: Step-by-Step Guide for All Models

Introduction

DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode is a special device recovery mode for iOS devices, where the device can interact with iTunes (on Windows) or Finder (on macOS) without loading the operating system. It is used to force update or restore firmware when standard recovery mode fails, such as when stuck on the Apple logo, experiencing boot loops, or encountering errors that cannot be fixed by standard methods.

In this guide, you'll learn how to properly put an iPhone or iPad into DFU mode for various models.

Requirements

Before you begin, make sure you have:

• A computer with Windows (latest version of iTunes installed) or Mac (macOS Catalina 10.15 or later, uses Finder).
• An original Lightning cable (or USB-C for iPad Pro with USB-C).
• A charged iPhone/iPad (at least 20% battery).
• Knowledge of your device's exact model (e.g., iPhone 12, 2nd generation iPhone SE, etc.).

⚠️ Important: DFU mode completely erases the device and installs the latest version of iOS. Before beginning, it is recommended to back up via iCloud or computer if possible.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow the steps in the exact order specified for your model. A successful entry into DFU mode means the device's screen will remain completely black, and the computer will display a message indicating an iPhone in recovery mode has been detected.

For iPhone 8, X, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and SE (2nd generation and newer)

1. Connect the iPhone to the computer using the cable.
2. Quickly press and release the Volume Up button.
3. Quickly press and release the Volume Down button.
4. Press and hold the Side button for about 5 seconds until the screen goes black.
5. While still holding the Side button, press and hold the Volume Down button for another 5 seconds.
6. Release the Side button, but continue holding the Volume Down button for 5 more seconds.
7. If the screen remains black and iTunes (Windows) or Finder (macOS) shows that an iPhone in recovery mode has been detected, you have successfully entered DFU mode.

For iPhone 7 and 7 Plus

1. Connect the iPhone to the computer.
2. Press and hold both the Side button and the Volume Down button simultaneously.
3. After 8 seconds, release the Side button, but continue holding the Volume Down button for another 5 seconds.
4. If the screen remains black and the computer detects the device, DFU mode is activated.

For iPhone 6s, 6s Plus, SE (1st generation), and models with a Home button

1. Connect the iPhone to the computer.
2. Press and hold both the Side (or Top) button and the Home button simultaneously.
3. After 8 seconds, release the Side button, but continue holding the Home button for another 5 seconds.
4. The screen should remain black, and the computer should detect the device in recovery mode.

For iPad without a Home button (iPad Pro 2018 and newer, iPad Air 4/5, iPad mini 6)

The sequence is similar to iPhone 8 and newer:

1. Connect the iPad to the computer.
2. Quickly press and release the Volume Up button.
3. Quickly press and release the Volume Down button.
4. Press and hold the Top button for about 5 seconds until the screen goes black.
5. While still holding the Top button, press and hold the Volume Down button for another 5 seconds.
6. Release the Top button, but continue holding the Volume Down button for 5 more seconds.
7. Successful entry: black screen and detection in iTunes/Finder.

For iPad with a Home button (iPad, iPad Air 1-3, iPad mini 1-5, iPad Pro with Home)

The sequence is similar to iPhone 6s:

1. Connect the iPad to the computer.
2. Press and hold both the Top button and the Home button simultaneously.
3. After 8 seconds, release the Top button, but continue holding the Home button for another 5 seconds.
4. A black screen and detection in iTunes/Finder confirm entry into DFU mode.

Verifying the Result

After completing the steps:

• The iPhone/iPad screen displays nothing (completely black).
• In iTunes (Windows) or Finder (macOS), a window appears with a message: "iPhone detected in recovery mode. You must restore this iPhone before it can be used with iTunes." (or similar for iPad).
• In the iTunes/Finder window, you'll see "Restore" and "Cancel" buttons.

If the device's screen lights up or shows a cable pointing to iTunes, you entered standard recovery mode, not DFU. In this case, try again, following the instructions more precisely.

Possible Issues

Device restarts instead of entering DFU

You likely held the buttons for too long or released them at the wrong moment. Start over, carefully counting the seconds. For Face ID models, it's crucial not to hold the Side button for more than 5 seconds before pressing the Volume Down button.

iTunes/Finder does not detect the device

• Ensure the cable is functional and securely connected to both the device and computer.
• Try a different USB port (preferably directly on the computer, not through a hub).
• A "Trust This Computer?" prompt may appear on the iPhone—if so, confirm it. If the prompt doesn't appear due to the black screen, this is normal for DFU mode.
• Restart the computer and try again.
• Install the latest version of iTunes (for Windows) or update macOS.

Device exits DFU mode on its own

If, after successfully entering DFU mode, the device restarts after a few seconds, this may indicate a hardware issue (such as a drained battery or faulty buttons). Try using a different cable and computer. If the problem persists, you may need to visit a service center.

FAQ

How does DFU mode differ from standard recovery mode?
In standard recovery mode, a cable and iTunes/Finder image appears on the screen, and the device loads a minimal version of iOS. In DFU mode, the screen is completely black, and the device does not load iOS at all, allowing you to reflash the firmware from scratch.

How to exit DFU mode without restoring?
To exit DFU mode, hold the Side button for about 10 seconds until the Apple logo appears. If that doesn't work, connect the device to a computer and perform a restore via iTunes/Finder, after which the device will reboot with a clean system.

Can I enter DFU mode without connecting to a computer?
No, activating DFU mode requires connection to a computer with iTunes or Finder. Without a connection, the device will not enter DFU mode, even if you perform the button combination.

What to do if none of the button combinations work?
Make sure you've correctly identified your device model. The sequence for iPhone 8 and newer differs from older models. Also check if "Simplified Mode" (in Accessibility settings) is enabled, which can alter button behavior. Try a different cable and computer. If the problem persists, there may be a hardware malfunction.