How to Restore the iPhone When Not Booting Up

By Avery Martin

Restoring an iPhone often helps correct software issues.
i Justin Sullivan/Getty Images News/Getty Images

When your iPhone gives you a Recovery Mode message or simply won't boot up, there are a few steps that should help resolve your issue. In many cases, the issue can be resolved by charging your iPhone properly. When charging doesn't work, you can attempt to restore your iPhone and update it to the latest version of iOS. Apple Support also provides a list of specific error codes that may help you diagnose and troubleshoot problems with your device if a restore operation doesn't work. If all else fails, the Apple Store can help you get your iPhone working again.

Charge iPhone

Step 1

Connect your iPhone to the battery charger that came with your device. Plug the charger directly into a wall outlet, not a computer.

Step 2

Charge your iPhone for at least 15 minutes.

Step 3

Turn your iPhone on by holding down the Home button until the device boots.

Restore iPhone

Step 1

Connect your iPhone to your computer using the provided charging cable.

Step 2

iTunes should launch automatically. If iTunes doesn't launch automatically, click the the Windows "Start" button, type "itunes" into the Search field and press "Enter." On a Mac, click the iTunes icon in the Dock.

Step 3

Click on your iPhone when it appears in the Devices section of iTunes. If it doesn't appear, try connecting the device with a different charging cable and make sure the your cable isn't damaged.

Step 4

Click "Summary" and choose "Restore."

Step 5

Slide the "Slide To Set Up" bar on your iPhone and follow the instructions to setup your iPhone.

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