If you are getting an error when trying to restore your iPhone, don’t worry – there are several steps you can take to try and fix the issue. In many cases, you can successfully restore your iPhone by trying a different USB cable, using a different computer, or putting your iPhone in recovery mode. Here are some quick answers to common questions about restoring an iPhone with an error:
What are some common restore error messages?
Some common error messages you may encounter when trying to restore an iPhone include:
- “iPhone could not be restored. An unknown error occurred (14).”
- “The iPhone could not be restored. An unknown error occurred (4013).”
- “The iPhone “iPhone” could not be restored. The device isn’t eligible for the requested build.”
- “The iPhone software update server could not be contacted or is temporarily unavailable.”
What causes iPhone restore errors?
There are a few potential causes of iPhone restore errors:
- Corrupt or incomplete iOS software files – If the iOS software file you are trying to install is corrupted or incomplete, it can lead to errors during the restore process.
- Connection issues – Faulty cables, computer USB ports, or internet connectivity issues can interrupt the data transfer during a restore.
- Outdated or incompatible iOS version – Trying to restore to an iOS version that is no longer signed by Apple or incompatible with your device can result in errors.
- iPhone storage filled up – Not having enough available storage space on the iPhone can sometimes lead to restore failures.
How can I fix iPhone restore errors?
Here are some steps to try fixing iPhone restore errors:
- Try a different USB cable – Use an Apple MFi certified charging and data cable. Third-party cables sometimes cause issues.
- Try a different USB port – Plug your iPhone into a different USB port on your computer if possible.
- Use a different computer – Restore your iPhone using a different computer than the one you typically sync with.
- Update iTunes/Finder – Make sure you have the latest version of iTunes or Finder.
- Hard reset the iPhone – Force restart your iPhone by pressing and quickly releasing the Volume Up button, pressing and quickly releasing the Volume Down button, then press and hold the Side button until you see the Apple logo.
- Put the iPhone in recovery mode – Connect your iPhone to your computer while powered off. Then press and hold the Side button until you see the recovery mode screen.
- Restore using recovery mode – If you can get your iPhone into recovery mode, you should be able to successfully restore.
- Restore to factory settings – Try restoring your iPhone to factory default settings instead of restoring a backup.
How can I avoid iPhone restore errors?
Here are some tips to avoid errors when restoring your iPhone:
- Make sure you have a complete, latest version of the IPSW restore file for your specific device.
- Only restore using a computer and iTunes/Finder you trust and have used before successfully.
- Delete apps and media to clear up storage space before restoring.
- Backup your iPhone data regularly so you have a complete backup available if needed.
- Keep your iPhone, computer, iTunes/Finder, and iOS up to date with the latest versions.
- Use trusted, high-quality cables and adapters like those from Apple.
- Turn off Find My iPhone before attempting a restore.
What should I do if nothing fixes the iPhone restore error?
If you still get an error when trying to restore your iPhone after trying all the steps above, here are a few other things to test:
- Try a different WiFi or cellular data connection – Move your computer and iPhone to a different internet connection.
- Contact Apple support – Apple’s technicians can often resolve tricky restore errors and determine if your iPhone requires service.
- Take your iPhone to Apple store – Make a Genius Bar appointment at an Apple Retail Store for hands-on help restoring your iPhone.
- Restore your iPhone using your Mac – If you have been trying on a Windows PC, a Mac can sometimes resolve errors that persist on a PC.
When should I take my iPhone into an Apple Store for restore errors?
We recommend taking your iPhone into an Apple store if you experience the following:
- You still get a restore error after trying all troubleshooting steps multiple times.
- Your iPhone shows visible physical damage that could be related to software issues.
- Your iPhone gets stuck at the Apple logo screen when booting up.
- You get repeated restore errors referencing specific components like the update server, WiFi, or modem firmware.
- You suspect your iPhone has malware or other security issues that require professional servicing.
Apple Geniuses have access to advanced tools and resources that can fully diagnose and fix many serious iPhone software faults. They can replace any damaged hardware that may be contributing to restore errors as well.
How can I back up my iPhone before a restore?
Before attempting a restore, make sure your iPhone data is fully backed up to either iCloud or your computer. Here are steps to back up your iPhone:
Back up to iCloud
- Connect your iPhone to a WiFi network.
- Make sure you are signed into iCloud on your iPhone.
- Go to Settings > [your name] > iCloud.
- Tap iCloud Backup and select “Back Up Now.”
- Leave your iPhone plugged in until the backup completes.
Back up to your computer
- Connect your iPhone to your computer via USB.
- Open iTunes or Finder on your computer.
- Select your iPhone and go to the Summary page (iTunes) or General tab (Finder).
- Click “Back Up Now” to perform a manual backup.
- Leave your iPhone connected until the backup finishes.
Once your iPhone data is fully backed up, you can feel safe restoring your iPhone knowing you have a complete copy of your data available to restore from if needed.
How can I restore my iPhone from a backup after restoring iOS?
After successfully restoring your iPhone firmware, you can then restore your data and settings from either iCloud or iTunes/Finder:
Restore from iCloud backup
- On the Apps & Data screen when first setting up your newly restored iPhone, tap “Restore from iCloud Backup.”
- Sign into iCloud and select the desired backup from the list.
- Allow the restore process to complete, keeping your iPhone connected to WiFi.
Restore from iTunes/Finder backup
- Open iTunes or Finder on the computer containing your backup.
- Connect your restored iPhone to your computer via USB.
- Select your iPhone and go to the Summary page (iTunes) or General tab (Finder).
- Click “Restore Backup” and select your desired backup.
- Let the restore complete until you see the “Your iPhone has been restored” message.
That’s all there is to it! With your iPhone firmware and settings now restored, it should be back up and running just like new.
Conclusion
iPhone restore errors can be frustrating, but are often fixable with some simple troubleshooting. The key steps are using different cables, ports, and computers, putting the iPhone in recovery mode, updating your software, clearing space, and taking advantage of Apple’s tools and support. With a current backup, you can feel confident restoring your iPhone knowing your data is safe. Be diligent about regular backups so you are prepared in the event your iPhone needs to be restored.