iPhone Restoration via iTunes: Step-by-Step Guide 2026

Introduction / Why This Is Needed

Restoring an iPhone via iTunes (or Finder on macOS) is a powerful tool for resolving serious operating system issues. This method completely reflashes the device, which helps fix:

• Freezes on the Apple logo or in recovery mode.
• Critical errors after a failed iOS update.
• Memory or performance problems that cannot be resolved by standard methods.
• Resetting the device to factory settings if you forgot the password (but without the possibility of saving data).

Important: This process erases all data on the iPhone. Be sure to create a backup before starting.

Requirements / Preparation

Before you begin, ensure all the following conditions are met:

1. Computer:
   • Windows: The latest version of iTunes installed from the Apple website or Microsoft Store. Version 12.15 or newer is recommended.
   • macOS (Catalina 10.15 and newer): iTunes is not needed; use the built-in Finder. Ensure macOS is updated.
   • macOS (Mojave 10.14 and older): The latest version of iTunes is installed.
2. Reliable Connection:
   • Original USB-C cable (for iPhone 15 and newer) or Lightning (for older models). Cheap or damaged cables are a common cause of failures.
   • USB 3.0 (blue) or USB-C port on the computer. Avoid USB hubs.
3. iPhone Settings:
   • The device is charged to at least 50% or connected to power.
   • The "Find My iPhone" feature is disabled (see step 2).
   • You know the iPhone's screen lock passcode (if one is set).
   • You know your Apple ID password if "Activation Lock" (Find My iPhone) is enabled on the device.
4. Backup: A current data backup has been created via iTunes/Finder or iCloud.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparation: Check Compatibility and Create a Backup

Open iTunes on Windows or Finder on macOS. Connect the iPhone to the computer with a cable. If iTunes/Finder recognizes the device, you will see its icon. Create a backup immediately:

• In iTunes: Click the iPhone icon → in the "Backups" section, select "Back Up Now".
• In Finder: Select the iPhone in the sidebar → in the "Backups" section, click "Back Up Now".

Wait for completion. After this, you can proceed with the restore.

Step 2: Disable Find My iPhone and Enter the Lock Screen Passcode

On the iPhone itself:

1. Open Settings → your name (Apple ID) → Find My.
2. Tap Find My iPhone and turn off the switch.
3. Enter your Apple ID password to confirm.
4. Also, if a passcode is set to unlock the screen, remember it — it will be required after the restore.

⚠️ Important: If Find My iPhone is not disabled, iTunes will not allow the restore to proceed, and the device will remain in an activated state (Activation Lock).

Step 3: Put the iPhone into Recovery Mode (DFU)

This is the key step. The button sequence depends on the model:

For iPhone 8, iPhone SE (2nd gen), and newer:

1. Connect the cable to the iPhone and the computer.
2. Quickly press and release the Volume Up button.
3. Quickly press and release the Volume Down button.
4. Hold the Side button (power) until the recovery mode screen appears (cable and iTunes/Finder icon). This may take 10-15 seconds. Do not release it until you see this screen.

For iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus:

1. Connect the cable.
2. Simultaneously hold the Volume Down button and the Power button.
3. Hold until the recovery mode screen appears.

For iPhone 6s, iPhone SE (1st gen), and older:

1. Connect the cable.
2. Simultaneously hold the Home button and the Power button.
3. Hold until the recovery mode screen appears.

Step 4: Perform the Restore in iTunes/Finder

As soon as the recovery mode screen appears on the iPhone:

1. On the computer, a pop-up window should appear in iTunes (Windows) or Finder (macOS) stating that the iPhone has been detected in recovery mode.
2. Click the "Restore" button.
3. iTunes/Finder will automatically download the latest version of iOS compatible with your model. This may take a few minutes depending on your internet speed.
4. After downloading, the process of extracting and installing the firmware on the device will begin. Do not disconnect the cable or interrupt the process! The status will be displayed on the iPhone screen (e.g., "Loading Software").

Step 5: Set Up the iPhone as New or Restore from Backup

After the reflashing is successfully completed, the iPhone will automatically restart.

1. After the reboot, you will see the "Hello" screen (like on a new device).
2. Go through the initial setup: select language, region, connect to Wi-Fi.
3. On the "Apps & Data" screen, choose:
   • "Restore from iTunes Backup" → select the backup you created in step 1. Follow the instructions to restore data and settings.
   • "Set Up as New iPhone" → start with a clean slate. You will need to sign in to your Apple ID, install apps, etc., again.
4. If you disabled Find My iPhone in step 2, re-enable it after setup in Settings → your name → Find My → Find My iPhone.

Verifying the Result

A successful restore is confirmed by the following signs:

1. The iPhone has fully booted to the home screen (SpringBoard).
2. In Settings → General → About, the current iOS version is displayed (e.g., iOS 18.3).
3. All functions (calls, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, camera) work normally.
4. If you restored from a backup, your apps, photos (if they were in the backup), contacts, and messages have reappeared on the device.
5. iTunes/Finder shows a "Done" status and stops displaying the iPhone in recovery mode.

Potential Issues

Error 4013 (or 4005, 4014) in iTunes

• Cause: Communication failure between the iPhone and computer during the restore.
• Solution: 1) Use a different USB port (directly on the computer, not a hub). 2) Try a different original cable. 3) Restart both the computer and the iPhone. 4) Update iTunes/drivers. 5) Try the restore on another computer.

iTunes Hangs on "Preparing iPhone for Restore"

• Cause: Most often an unstable connection or software conflict.
• Solution: 1) Disconnect and reconnect the cable. 2) Quit iTunes and launch it again (on macOS, restart Finder). 3) Temporarily disable antivirus and firewall. 4) Ensure no other programs are managing the iPhone (e.g., third-party drivers).

iPhone Does Not Enter Recovery Mode

• Cause: Incorrect button press sequence or hardware issue.
• Solution: 1) Follow the instructions for your model more precisely (especially for iPhone 8+). 2) Hold the buttons exactly until the recovery mode screen appears, not longer. 3) Check if the buttons are sticking. 4) If this doesn't help, there may be a hardware problem with the iPhone—service will be required.

After Restore, iPhone Asks for Apple ID Password You Don't Remember (Activation Lock)

• Cause: Find My iPhone was enabled on the device, and the Apple ID and password are required for activation.
• Solution: This is theft protection. You must recall the Apple ID credentials used on this device. If you forgot the password, recover it via iforgot.apple.com. Without this, the iPhone cannot be used.

Restore Completed, but Errors Occur During Setup (e.g., Cannot Connect to iCloud)

• Cause: Often related to network settings or an outdated backup.
• Solution: 1) Ensure a stable Wi-Fi connection. 2) During setup, choose "Set Up as New iPhone", skip the iCloud steps, and then sign in to your account later. 3) If the issue is with restoring from a backup, try selecting an older backup version.