How to Factory Reset iPhone with Buttons
Sometimes your iPhone may freeze or stop responding, and you might need to reset it using the physical buttons.
This process, often called a force restart or hard reset, doesn't erase any of your phone's data.
It works similarly to rebooting a computer and can help fix problems like frozen screens or minor software bugs.
If you're looking to completely wipe your iPhone and restore it to factory settings, a full reset is required.
Before doing this, it's important to back up your data to avoid losing essential files, including contacts, photos, and app-related information.
This precaution ensures you can restore your information after the reset.
For iPhones equipped with Face ID, the steps to force restart are straightforward.
First, press and quickly release the volume up button. Next, do the same with the volume down button. Then, press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears on the screen.
If your iPhone has a Home button, the process is slightly different. Hold down both the Home button and either the top or side button at the same time. Keep holding them until the Apple logo shows up.
Before proceeding with a full factory reset, it's crucial to back up your data either to iCloud or your computer.
After that, head to Reset settings then choose Erase All to complete the factory reset.
Fixing Unresponsive iPhones: How to Perform a Hard Reset
When your iPhone becomes unresponsive or freezes, performing a hard reset, also known as a force restart, can help resolve the problem.
The method you use depends on the model of your iPhone.
Hard Reset for iPhones with Face ID (iPhone X and Later)
- Press the Volume Up button: Quickly press and release the Volume Up button.
- Press the Volume Down button: Quickly press and release the Volume Down button.
- Hold the Side button: Continue holding down the side button (power button) until the Apple logo appears on your screen.
Hard Reset for iPhone 7 and iPhone 8 Series
- Press and Hold: At the same time, press and hold the Side (or Top) button along with the Volume Down button.
- Wait for Apple Logo: Keep holding both buttons until the Apple logo appears.
Hard Reset for iPhone 6s and Older Models
- Press and Hold: Press both the Home button and the Side (or Top) button simultaneously.
- Apple Logo Appears: Continue holding the buttons until you see the Apple logo on the screen.
Key Points to Remember
- Forced Restart: A hard reset forces your iPhone to shut down and restart suddenly. It should only be used if regular troubleshooting doesn't work.
- Loss of Unsaved Data: Be aware that any unsaved information in apps may be lost during the restart.
When a Hard Reset Might Be Necessary
A hard reset can be useful in several situations when your iPhone isn't functioning properly.
For instance, if your screen becomes frozen and no longer responds to touch, a hard reset can help regain control.
It’s also helpful if an app crashes and you’re unable to close it or if your device becomes sluggish and fails to respond to basic commands.
Additionally, unusual behavior such as strange noises or random glitches on your screen may signal the need for a force restart to restore normal functionality.
If this fails, it may be time to contact Apple Support for additional help.
Summary of Key Points
- A hard reset or force restart can fix minor problems without affecting your data.
- Always back up your iPhone before performing a factory reset, as this will erase all content and settings.
- The steps to perform a reset differ depending on your iPhone model, so be sure to use the correct button combination.
Steps for Resetting Your iPhone
When resetting using the buttons, it's important to first back up your data, understand how to force restart, enter recovery mode if needed, and know how to restore your device using Finder or iTunes.
Backing Up Your iPhone
Before performing any reset, make sure to back up your device to either iCloud or a computer to safeguard your contacts, photos, and settings.
Also, don’t forget to disable “Find My iPhone” in your settings for privacy and to ensure the reset proceeds without issues.
Performing a Force Restart
To initiate a force restart, quickly press and release the Volume Up button, followed by the Volume Down button.
Then, hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears. This process doesn’t delete your data but is useful for fixing minor software glitches.
How to Enter Recovery Mode
To put your iPhone into recovery mode, you'll need to connect it to a computer and open iTunes or Finder.
For iPhones without a Home button, start by quickly pressing and releasing the Volume Up button, followed by the Volume Down button.
Then, press and hold the Side button, even after the Apple logo appears, until the recovery mode screen is visible.
If you have an iPhone 6s or an earlier model, press and hold both the Home button and the Top (or Side) button simultaneously until you see the recovery mode screen.
Restoring Your iPhone via Finder or iTunes
Once in recovery mode, find your iPhone in iTunes or Finder on your computer. Select the option to “Restore” your device.
This action will erase all data on your iPhone and install the latest version of iOS. Afterward, your iPhone will be like new, and you can choose to set it up as a new device or restore it from a backup.
Jim's passion for Apple products ignited in 2007 when Steve Jobs introduced the first iPhone. This was a canon event in his life. Noticing a lack of iPad-focused content that is easy to understand even for “tech-noob”, he decided to create Tabletmonkeys in 2011.
Jim continues to share his expertise and passion for tablets, helping his audience as much as he can with his motto “One Swipe at a Time!”