If you have forgotten the passcode for your iPhone and it has become disabled from too many failed passcode attempts, you may need to reset it through iTunes to regain access. Resetting an iPhone through iTunes can allow you to bypass the passcode lock so you can use the device again. This process will reset your iPhone back to factory default settings, so be sure to back up your data first if possible. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to reset a locked iPhone using iTunes.
Requirements
To reset your locked iPhone on iTunes, you will need:
- The locked iPhone
- A Lightning to USB cable to connect the iPhone to your computer
- A computer with the latest version of iTunes installed (Windows or Mac)
- The latest version of iOS installed on the iPhone (can be checked in Settings > General > Software Update on the iPhone when unlocked)
If you don’t have access to the iPhone because it’s locked, you can update iTunes beforehand to make sure you have the latest version. You may also need to download the latest iOS update and have it ready before connecting the iPhone.
Back Up Your iPhone Data Before Reset
Before resetting your iPhone, it’s highly recommended to back up your data first, if possible. This saves all your information like photos, messages, contacts, calendar events, device settings, and more.
If your iPhone is not totally disabled, you may be able to back up to iCloud before resetting by:
- Connecting the iPhone to a Wi-Fi network
- Going to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup > Back Up Now
If your iPhone is completely disabled, your only option may be to reset first, then try to recover data from a previous backup.
Put the iPhone in Recovery Mode
To reset the iPhone through iTunes, you’ll need to put the device into recovery mode first:
- Connect the iPhone to your computer using the Lightning cable.
- Open iTunes on your computer. iTunes should recognize your connected iPhone.
- While the iPhone is connected, press and quickly release the Volume Up button.
- Then press and quickly release the Volume Down button.
- Finally, press and hold the Side button until you see the recovery mode screen on your iPhone.
- When you see the Connect to iTunes screen, your iPhone has entered recovery mode.
If you run into any issues getting the iPhone into recovery mode, try repeating these steps again slowly. The timing pressing the volume and side buttons is important.
Restore the iPhone Using iTunes
With your iPhone in recovery mode and connected to your computer, you can now reset it using iTunes:
- In iTunes on your computer, you should see a recovery mode alert near the top of the iTunes window.
- Click OK to acknowledge. iTunes will scan your iPhone in recovery mode.
- On a Mac, click Restore iPhone. On Windows, click Restore.
- A popup will ask if you want to Download and Update or Recover from iCloud Backup. Choose Download and Update to reset via iTunes.
- iTunes will now download the latest iOS software file needed to reset the device.
- Once the download is complete, iTunes will prepare the iPhone for reset.
- Finally, iTunes will reset and restore your iPhone to factory settings.
- The whole process can take up to 10-15 minutes depending on your internet connection speed.
Once the reset is complete, your iPhone will be at the Hello screen and ready to be set up like new. You can then disable the passcode lock or set a new passcode. Your iPhone data will be erased, except anything stored in an iCloud backup.
Recover Data from iCloud Backup After Reset
If you have an iCloud backup, you can recover data back to your iPhone after the reset:
- Set up your iPhone as new after the reset until you reach the Apps & Data screen.
- Tap Restore from iCloud Backup.
- Sign in with your Apple ID and select the desired backup.
- Allow the restore process to complete. Your apps will reinstall and data will be restored.
This will restore your data like contacts, photos, notes, messages, device settings and more that were saved in your last iCloud backup. Be sure to use your same Apple ID as was on the iPhone originally.
Reset iPhone Without Computer Using iTunes
If you don’t have access to a computer with iTunes, there are a couple of other options to reset your disabled iPhone:
- Recovery Mode Reset via iCloud: You can put the iPhone in recovery mode and then restore via iCloud instead of iTunes. You will need to be connected to Wi-Fi for this method.
- Reset at Apple Store: Make a Genius Bar appointment at your local Apple store. The Apple techs can put your iPhone in recovery mode and restore it for you.
Both of these options will reset your iPhone to factory default settings without needing a computer. The process will still erase your data unless you have a backup.
Reset iPhone Using Find My iPhone
If you have Find My iPhone enabled in iCloud, you can also remotely erase your iPhone if it becomes lost or disabled:
- On another device, log into iCloud.com and go to Find My iPhone.
- Select your locked iPhone from the list of devices.
- Tap Erase iPhone at the bottom of the screen.
- Tap again to confirm the erase.
- Your iPhone will then be erased remotely.
This allows you to reset your disabled iPhone even if you can’t access it physically. However, to use the device again you will need to exit lost mode by entering your Apple ID and password in Settings.
Prevent Needing to Reset Locked iPhone
While it’s possible to reset a locked iPhone through iTunes or iCloud, it’s better to avoid getting locked out if possible. Follow these tips:
- Don’t allow anyone else to enter wrong passcodes. This triggers the 10-attempt disable.
- Use longer and more complex passcodes that are hard to guess.
- Enable Touch ID or Face ID if your model supports it.
- Create a memorable passcode.
- Store your passcode somewhere safe in case you forget it.
- Enable Lost Mode and remote erase in Find My iPhone beforehand.
- Keep regular iCloud backups.
Taking preventative measures can help avoid needing to reset your iPhone from a locked state. But if you do get locked out, resetting through iTunes or iCloud can get you up and running again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will resetting delete everything on my iPhone?
Yes, resetting your iPhone will erase all of the data and restore it to factory default settings. Be sure to back up your data first before resetting if possible.
Will resetting disable Activation Lock?
No, if you have Find My iPhone enabled, Activation Lock will still be on after resetting. You’ll need to enter the Apple ID and password previously associated with the iPhone to reactivate and use it.
Do I lose iOS updates if I reset my iPhone?
No, the latest iOS version installed on your iPhone remains after resetting. However, you may need to update iTunes and download the iOS file first before resetting through iTunes.
How can I tell if my iPhone is disabled?
If your iPhone is disabled from too many failed passcode attempts, you’ll see the Connect to iTunes screen when attempting to turn on the device. The screen may also say that your iPhone is disabled and to connect to iTunes.
What if my computer doesn’t recognize my iPhone in recovery mode?
First, make sure you have the latest iTunes version installed. Try a different USB cable if needed. Also confirm the iPhone is actually in recovery mode by looking for the Connect to iTunes screen.
Conclusion
Resetting a locked and disabled iPhone through iTunes is an effective way to regain access if you’ve forgotten your passcode. By putting the iPhone in recovery mode first, you can then restore it to factory settings via iTunes on your computer. Make sure to back up important data beforehand and have the latest iOS version available. Following the step-by-step process correctly allows you to successfully reset your iPhone without losing the latest iOS. Just be prepared to have to set up the device from scratch again. With a few precautions, you hopefully won’t need to resort to resetting a locked iPhone too often.
