Introduction
Guide notes
- (iPhone only) This method only works up to the iPhone 6s. The current method varies by device on newer models.
- iCloud warning: Devices running iOS 7 or newer will have an iCloud activation lock. If you restore a device with unknown credentials, you will no longer be able to use the device. Furthermore, devices with an unofficial iCloud unlock will no longer work.
- With iOS 8 and up, the device data is encrypted. If you need your data, you must guess the password.
- WARNING: ALL DATA ON THE DEVICE WILL BE ERASED! IF POSSIBLE, GUESS THE PASSWORD.
If you purchased a used iDevice or forgot the password on your current device, this guide will show you how to restore the device so you can use it again. If you did not forget the password but are having problems that prevent a normal recovery, this method can also be used for this purpose.
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Plug your device into your computer. Use the cable that matches what your device uses (30-pin/Lightning).
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Once the device is plugged in, verify it shows up in iTunes. The device will not sync while it is locked, but this is normal.
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Reset the iPod. Hold both the power and home buttons down at the same time. Do this until the device screen turns black.
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This is the power button.
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This is the home button.
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Once the Apple logo shows up on the screen, let go of the power button. Hold the home button until the screen on the example device comes up.
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If you have done the previous steps correctly, the device shows up in iTunes in recovery mode.
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Click Restore iPod/iPhone/iPad and then Restore and Update. Agree to the EULA.
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Once you agree to the EULA (not shown), iTunes will download the latest firmware. Your device will be restored once this is finished.
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Once the device is restored, set it up as a new device. Once configured, make a fallback backup that is safe to use in the future.
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