How to factory reset your iPhone

💡 Need to know

• Back up data first—a factory reset deletes stored settings, apps, and files.
• A factory reset can resolve software conflicts, but it's not a fix for hardware issues.
• Have your Apple ID and password on hand. You'll need it to disable Activation Lock.

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Your tried and true iPhone® is starting to show its age. And to be honest, you're a little jealous of the camera improvements and ultra-clear display on the new models. But if you're trading in your device for the latest version, you first need to know how to factory reset an iPhone. You don't want your data to fall into someone else's hands.

Asurion Experts help you get the most out of your tech. Whether you need to do an iPhone 12 factory reset or fix a disabled iPhone, we have a solution. Here's how to reset an iPhone to factory settings in a few easy steps.

What to do before you erase your data

Before you reset your iPhone, it's critical to back up your device data to iCloud® or a computer. That way, you don't lose anything important, such as texts, contacts, photos, or app data. 

After the factory reset, you can retrieve your backup file and install it on a new device or your current iPhone. Keep your Apple® ID password handy, since you may be prompted for it to bypass Activation Lock.

Creating a backup file on iCloud

Apple provides up to 5 gigabytes of free iCloud storage that you can use to back up your device. If you need more space, you can upgrade your plan to a paid version. Take these steps to save your iPhone data to iCloud:

1. Plug your iPhone into its charger and make sure you're connected to Wi-Fi. 
2. Open Settings.
3. Tap [your name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
4. Tap Back Up Now to start the process.

iPhone models that support 5G can handle backups over a cellular connection. To enable it, follow these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap [your name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
3. Turn on Back Up Over Cellular.

If you're on a cellular plan with data limitations, performing a backup over Wi-Fi is a better option. That way, you don't burn through your plan's data. 

Saving a backup file to a Mac

You can save a backup of your iPhone on a Mac® computer. Take these steps:

1. Use a cable to connect the iPhone and Mac.
2. Open Finder® and select your iPhone. 
3. Click General > "Back up all of the data on your iPhone to this Mac."
4. Click "Encrypt local backup" to encrypt and protect your data with a password.
5. Click Back Up Now.

On a Mac running macOS® 10.14 or earlier, follow the same steps using the iTunes® app instead of Finder.

Create a backup file on a Windows device

It's possible to save an iPhone backup to a Windows® computer if you install the iTunes app. Once installed, take these steps:

1. Use a cable to connect the iPhone and computer.
2. Open iTunes and click the iPhone button.
3. Click Summary > Back Up Now.
4. Click "Encrypt local backup" > Set Password to encrypt and protect your data with a password. 

How to reset your iPhone using Settings

The easiest way to factory reset an iPhone is through the Settings app. Use this option if your device is working properly and not unresponsive. Take these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap General > Transfer or Reset iPhone. 
   • Tap Reset to restore your device to its original settings without deleting your personal data. From the Reset menu, you can decide which settings you want to reset, such as All Settings, Network Settings, Keyboard Dictionary, or Home Screen Layout.
   • Tap Erase All Content and Settings to wipe the iPhone of all apps and personal data.
3. Enter your passcode or Apple Account password.
   • If you have an eSIM, you can opt to erase or save it. If it's deleted, you'll need to request a new one from your carrier to reactivate your plan.
4. Tap Continue.

Resetting an iPhone can take a few minutes, so give it time to finish the process. 

Resetting your iPhone with a computer

If your iPhone is completely unresponsive or locked, you can force a reset using a desktop machine. On a Mac, use the native Finder app.On a Windows PC, download the modern Apple Devices app from the Microsoft Store (legacy iTunes is no longer used for modern device restoration).

1. Connect your iPhone to the computer using a USB cable.
2. Open Finder (Mac) or the Apple Devices app (Windows).
3. Select your iPhone from the sidebar menu.
4. Under the General tab, click Restore iPhone, then click Restore again to confirm. Your computer will automatically download the latest iOS update and wipe the device down to the multi-lingual "Hello" screen.