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How to Reset iPhone to Factory Settings
Edited 2 weeks ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team
iOSiPhoneResetFactory SettingsTroubleshootingPrivacySecurityDataMobileDevices
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Resetting your iPhone to its factory settings is a process that erases all your personal data, apps, and settings, and restores the device to the state it was in when you first took it out of the box. This can be useful if you're having problems with your device, preparing it for sale, or want to remove all the data before handing it over to someone else. Let's learn the steps and considerations for performing a factory reset on an iPhone. This guide will tell you everything you need to know and we'll aim to do it in plain English.
Understanding factory reset
Factory reset is a term that refers to the process of returning an electronic device to its original state. When you reset your iPhone to factory settings, it will delete all personal data stored on the device, including photos, messages, contacts, apps, and any custom settings. It's like starting with a clean slate. It's important to understand this because once you factory reset your iPhone, it's typically impossible to recover that data without a backup.
Reasons to factory reset your iPhone
There are several reasons why you might want to reset your iPhone to its factory settings:
- Troubleshooting: If your iPhone is having persistent software problems or performance issues, a factory reset can sometimes resolve them.
- Preparing for sale: If you are planning to sell your iPhone, resetting it will ensure that all your personal data is erased, protecting your privacy.
- Handing over: If you're giving your iPhone to a friend or family member, resetting will make this transition easier and ensure that your data remains private.
Steps to reset iPhone to factory settings
Before we begin, it's important to backup your device. You can use iCloud or iTunes for this. This is important because once you reset the phone, it will erase your data permanently.
Back up your iPhone
There are two main ways to back up your iPhone: using iCloud and using a computer with iTunes or Finder (for Macs running macOS Catalina or later).
Using iCloud
Follow these steps to back up using iCloud:
- Make sure that your iPhone is connected to a Wi-Fi network.
- Go to Settings.
- Tap your name at the top, then tap iCloud.
- Tap iCloud Backup.
- Tap on Back Up Now and make sure the process is complete. Stay connected to your Wi-Fi network until the process is complete.
Using a computer
Here's how to back up using iTunes or Finder:
- Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable.
- On a Mac with macOS Catalina or later, open Finder. On a PC or macOS Mojave or earlier, open iTunes.
- Select your iPhone when it appears on the computer.
- Click on ‘Back up now.’ Wait for the process to complete before proceeding.
Erase all content and settings
Now, let's begin the reset process:
- Go to Settings on your iPhone.
- Tap General.
- Scroll down and tap Transfer or Reset iPhone.
- Tap Erase All Content and Settings. You may be asked to enter your passcode or Apple ID password for confirmation.
- Confirm your choice to erase your iPhone. The device will then begin the reset process which may take a few minutes.
Reactivating your iPhone
After the reset is complete, your iPhone will restart and present the Apple logo before displaying the initial setup screen. Follow the on-screen instructions to start fresh with your iPhone or restore from a backup you created before the reset.
Setting up as a new iPhone
If you want to set it up as a new iPhone, follow the steps on the screen to choose your language, connect to a Wi-Fi network, and set up your Apple ID.
Restoring from a backup
To restore from a backup, select the option during the setup process and follow the on-screen instructions to restore from your iCloud or iTunes backup.
Restoring from iCloud
When opting for iCloud backup restoration, make sure that your iPhone is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network so that all your previous data, such as apps, settings, and files, can be restored seamlessly.
Restoring from iTunes or Finder
To restore using a computer, connect your iPhone to the computer you used for the backup. Launch Finder or iTunes, depending on your computer's operating system. Select your iPhone and choose the most recent backup to restore.
Things to remember
- Make sure that your iPhone is sufficiently charged, or keep it connected to a power source during the reset process.
- Make sure you have the passcode or Apple ID details available if required during the reset.
Conclusion
Resetting your iPhone to factory settings is an effective way to ensure that it is free of unwanted data and settings, making it as good as new. Whether you are troubleshooting problems, preparing for a sale, or protecting your privacy, following the above steps ensures a thorough and safe process. Always remember to back up your data before performing a factory reset to avoid data loss.
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