What does it mean to restore an iPhone in iTunes? Restoring iPhone, iPod touch or iPad firmware in Windows
Sometimes, unfortunately, it happens that iPhone Apple Something bad happens: the touchscreen doesn’t respond, the screen goes dark, the device is locked, I can’t remember the password, an error message appears, and whatever else can happen with your favorite smartphone.
You may have updated your firmware iOS iPhone, but it didn’t take root, or the jailbreak was unsuccessful, so the device was blocked. There are many reasons for this, as well as solutions to these problems. In this article we will look at the question: how to restore an iPhone to factory settings.
Don’t worry too much about this, because after reading this article you will be able to outside help restore your iPhone using a convenient and a simple program iTunes on your computer. This process will not take you much time, but will require constant high-speed Internet access on the network.
Please note that, unfortunately, when using this method recovery, all your data on your iPhone will be erased: contacts, photos, documents, music and other information. So check to see if you started it account on iCloud and synchronized the iPhone, or previously synchronized data with iTunes, a backup copy was saved somewhere. Then after iPhone recovery you can recover all data from backup copy.
Not every firmware version will be compatible with your iPhone; you need to know their compatibility before restoring your smartphone. For example, you can restore the previous version, but it will be outdated and it is advisable to install a newer version. For example, when restoring an iPhone 3G, it is good to use iOS version 4.2.1, and when restoring an iPhone 3GS , it would be nice to download the firmware iOS versions 6. In turn on iPhone 4 you can also install versions from iOS 4 and up to version 6, and the iPhone 4S no longer supports firmware rollback, so if you do a restore, then only on latest firmware- from iOS 7.1 to iOS 9.3.5. For iPhone 5S is suitable for firmware version 8, 9 and 10, as for iPhone 6.
Please note that rolling back to older versions is sometimes not possible due to the fact that Apple company stopped subscribing to previous builds. You can find out in detail which firmware version is suitable for your iPhone by going to the official website, or by checking service center or special services. If the firmwares are marked with a check mark, then their recovery is still possible, if the iOS ones are marked with a cross, then they will not be restored. On some sites it is possible to download the firmware yourself if you are sure of the version you choose.
What you need to do before restoring your iPhone
As mentioned earlier, to restore an iPhone you will need a computer on which iTunes is installed, the latest version, and if it is outdated, then update it on your PC. This will not take much time, but is very important for correct process smartphone resuscitation.
Next, create a backup copy of iPhone, if possible. To do this, through the “Settings” menu, open iCloud program and click the “Back up to iPhone” button. You can also create a backup iPhone data in iTunes settings. If you don't have a PC, you can erase all data from your iPhone and restore it to factory settings without using a computer.
Make sure that the iPhone is charged at least 70% and is not discharged during recovery, as failure of the program can lead to system error and create new problems.
How to restore iPhone from iTunes
Open updated version iTunes programs on your PC and when USB help cord connect the iPhone to the computer. If your iPhone is password-protected and your PC requires you to dial an access code, but you don’t remember the password, then proceed further according to the written pop-up instructions.
Open iTunes will display the connected iPhone. Next, click the “Browse” button, which is located on the tab, select the required firmware and set the “Restore” command, duplicating it in case of a confirmation request. The recovery program will start and take some time, finishing its cleaning work by restarting the device. Now set up your smartphone by clicking on the “Set up as new” command so that it starts restoring in the settings.
How to restore iPhone with error 3194
The reason for the error message number 3194 appearing on iPhone can mean different things, but as a rule, this error occurs when the “TinyUmbrella” utility or something like it crashed when restoring the iPhone. You can fix this error as follows.
Logging in with hard drive By following the link “C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\etc”, you can find the file element “hosts”. Open it through Notepad and delete the line “gs.apple.com”, then save the file and restart the device’s PC.
Now it will not appear in iTunes this error 3194 during the iPhone recovery procedure, but to be sure, it is better to disable the PC firewall before starting the recovery. When iPhone 6 is restored, you can reinstall the backup of saved data from iTunes, and also put New Password blocking.
Typically, iTunes is used on the computer by users to manage their Apple devices, for example, to perform the recovery procedure. Today we will look at the main ways to solve the problem when an iPhone, iPod or iPad is not restored through iTunes.
There may be several reasons for the inability to restore an Apple device on a computer, starting with the banal outdated iTunes versions and ending with hardware problems.
Please note that if iTunes displays an error code with a specific error code when you try to restore your device, please see the article below as it may be your error and detailed instructions to eliminate it.
What to do if iTunes won't restore iPhone, iPod or iPad?
Method 1: Update iTunes
First of all, of course, you need to make sure that you are using current version iTunes.
To do this, you will need to check iTunes for updates and, if any are found, install the updates on your computer. After installation is complete, it is recommended that you restart your computer.
We cannot exclude the possibility of a failure both on the computer and on the Apple device being restored.
IN in this case you will need to perform a standard reboot of your computer, and for an Apple device do forced restart: to do this, you need to simultaneously hold down the Power and Home keys on the device for about 10 seconds. After this, the device will suddenly turn off, after which you need to boot the gadget in normal mode.
Method 3: Replacing the USB cable
Many problems when working with an Apple device on a computer arise due to the USB cable.
If you are using non-original cable, even if certified by Apple, you must definitely replace it with the original one. If you are using an original cable, you will need to carefully inspect it for any types of damage, both along the length of the cable itself and on the connector itself. If you find kinks, oxidation, twists or any other types of damage, you will need to replace the cable with a complete and original one.
Method 4: Use a different USB port
It might be worth trying to connect your Apple device to a different USB port on your computer.
For example, if you have desktop computer, then it is better to connect with reverse side system unit. If the gadget is connected via additional devices, such as a port built into your keyboard or a USB hub, you'll need to connect your iPhone, iPod, or iPad directly to your computer.
Method 4: Reinstall iTunes
A system crash may prevent iTunes from working properly, which may require you to reinstall iTunes.
First, you will need to completely remove iTunes from your computer, that is, removing not only the media processor itself, but also other Apple programs installed on the computer.
After removing iTunes from your computer, reboot the system, and then proceed to download the latest iTunes distribution from the official website of the developer and then install it on your computer.
Method 5: Editing the hosts file
During the process of updating or restoring an Apple device, iTunes must communicate with Apple servers, and if the program fails to do this, it is highly likely that the hosts file on the computer has been changed.
As a rule, the hosts file is changed computer viruses, so before restoring original file hosts, it is advisable that you check your computer for virus threats. You can do this either using your antivirus by running the scanning mode, or using a special healing utility Dr.Web CureIt .
If antivirus program viruses were detected, be sure to eliminate them, and then restart your computer. After this, you can proceed to the stage of restoring the previous version hosts file. More details on how to do this are described on the official Microsoft website.
Method 6: Disable Antivirus
Some antiviruses, wanting to provide maximum safety user can accept safe programs and malicious, blocking some of their processes.
Try disabling your antivirus completely and trying to restore your device again. If the procedure was successful, it means your antivirus is to blame. You will need to go to its settings and add iTunes program to the list of exceptions.
Method 7: Recovery via DFU mode
DFU – special emergency mode for Apple devices, which should be used by users in case of problems with the gadget. So, using this mode, you can try to complete the recovery procedure.
First of all, you will need to completely disconnect your Apple device and then connect it to your computer using a USB cable. Launch iTunes - the device will not be detected in it yet.
Now we need to enter the Apple gadget into DFU mode. To do this, press on your device physical key power and hold it for three seconds. After that, without releasing the power button, hold down the Home key and hold both buttons for 10 seconds. Finally, release the Power button and continue to hold the Home button until the Apple device is detected in iTunes.
IN this mode Only device recovery is available, which is what you actually need to start.
Method 8: Use a different computer
If none of the methods suggested in the article helped you solve the problem with restoring your Apple device, you should try performing the recovery procedure on another computer with the latest version of iTunes installed.
If you have previously encountered the problem of restoring a device through iTunes, share in the comments how you managed to solve it.
Data backup is the most effective method conservation necessary information, available on the iPhone, so do not neglect this useful feature. However, you need to know not only how to create a backup file, but also how to restore your iPhone from a backup.
The recovery method you choose depends on how you backed up your data. There can be two options:
- A copy of the information in iCloud.
- Backup file in iTunes.
Let's take a closer look at each of the available methods, studying the features and conditions of its use.
Using the iTunes application
If you want to restore your iPhone without updating, launch iTunes and check that backup copies of your smartphone are stored on your computer. If in the field " Automatic creation copies”, the “iCloud” item is checked, and there is not a single backup file on the computer, then using iTunes for recovery will not work.
If you see in the “Backup” field that at least one copy is stored on the computer, then you can begin the system rollback procedure.
After the system rollback procedure is completed, the setup assistant will be automatically launched. You will have to reinstall some services required for correct operation smartphone.
Recover from iCloud
A copy of iPhone data and settings in iCloud can be created both on the smartphone itself and through iTunes app on the computer. In any case, to roll back the system you will need the help of a setup assistant and a Wi-Fi connection.
You can launch the setup assistant after iOS updates or erasing settings and content in the Reset section of the Settings menu. Wiping destroys all data on your iPhone, so be sure to create a backup before using this method.
At the stage of device activation after a system update or factory reset, you will be asked to select a recovery option:
After selecting "Recover from iCloud" you will be prompted to activate your account. Apple entry ID, specifying the password. 
All applications installed on your device at the time of the backup will be automatically downloaded from the AppStore; all data included in the backup file will be returned to the device memory.
Errors and their correction
When restoring an iPhone from a backup via iTunes, you may experience various errors, which will be difficult for a beginner to cope with on his own. Therefore, it is better to prepare in advance for possible troubles and see what mistakes happen and how to correct them.
Error 3194
The reason for the appearance of such a notification is most often the work with the TinyUmbrella utility or similar programs. Fixing error 3194 is done as follows:
Usually the next time you try to restore iPhone error 3194 no longer occurs, but to be more sure, you can configure the firewall by temporarily pausing its operation.
Errors 1013, 1014 or 1015
The appearance of these errors is primarily due to the impossibility of downgrading the modem version, so fixing them will take a little longer:
Each step will be measured by a timer in the program window, so it will be difficult to make a mistake.
Factory reset
Sometimes iPhone owners need to restore their smartphone to its original state, that is, reset all settings. Usually this procedure is performed before selling the device so that the iPhone is like new. You can perform a factory reset without iTunes, using only the built-in tools of your smartphone.
Before resetting, make sure the battery charge is at maximum level. If you do not have 100% charge, connect the device to power.
Open the Settings app and go to the General section. Scroll down the screen to the Reset menu - when it opens, you will see several options for rolling back the device. Let's look at the three most used functions. 
Reset
This type of system rollback is used when it is necessary to return the phone to its factory settings, but at the same time leave all the information saved on it. 
After selecting the “Reset settings” option, a notification will appear on the screen about what will happen after performing this action. The process itself takes less than a minute, returning it to the iPhone initial settings. At the same time, music, photos, contacts, installed applications remain untouched.
Full content reset
This function is ideal for pre-sale preparation of the device, as it not only rolls back the smartphone settings to the factory state, but also erases all data recorded on it. 
Click on the “Erase content and settings” button. In the warning that appears, click “Erase iPhone.” The smartphone will automatically reboot and begin the procedure of deleting all recorded data and user installed parameters.
After turn on iPhone will ask you to complete the activation. At this stage, you will need the Internet (you can use iTunes and access the network via a computer).
During activation, the device will connect to Apple servers. Then you will be given two options - set up your iPhone as new or restore it from a backup. If you choose the first option, you will receive a completely clean device on which it is very difficult to detect traces of the previous owner.
Resetting network settings
Not quite suitable in this case, but quite useful feature, the existence of which every owner of an Apple device should know about.
If the iPhone refuses to connect to the Internet, does not see mobile network or point Wi-Fi access, try resetting your network settings.
Information and other parameters will remain untouched; but it will start new search available Internet sources, which sometimes allows you to solve the problem with accessing the network.
Restoring an iPhone can help when there are problems with applications, slowdowns and glitches. Also, before selling the device, it is advisable to return the phone to factory settings, deleting all your data from it. I sometimes use recovery as a way to immediately get rid of all the programs that have accumulated over several months.
The article discusses options for how to restore an iPhone from various states.
The recovery procedure itself is not particularly complicated. However, there are a number of nuances that users may encounter.
The first thing to note is that after restoring the firmware, users will receive a “clean” device running on the latest version of iOS. During the recovery process, all personal data, including photos, videos and music, will be deleted from the gadget’s memory.
You can get your data back using a backup that is stored either in iCloud or iTunes. There are also some other methods that allow you to restore at least part of the data if there is no backup.
How to Restore iPhone via iTunes
1. Connect mobile device to the computer using a cable.
2. Disable the Find My iPhone feature ( Settings – iCloud – Find iPhone).
3. Launch iTunes (it is advisable to use latest version applications. You can download it on the official Apple website).
4. Open a tab with the connected device.
5. Press the Restore button.
iTunes also allows you to restore your device from a backup. To do this, you need to select the location of the backup (on your computer or in iCloud) and press the Restore from backup button.
How to restore iPhone if there is no backup
If there is no backup copy iPhone owners can still return some information that was stored in the memory of their mobile devices. To do this, you can use an application called Mac FoneLab.
With its help, you can restore part of the data after deletion, unsuccessful flashing, full reset to factory settings, etc. Using the utility is quite simple. To recover data from using Mac FoneLab needs:
1. Purchase the application on the official website of the developers.
2. Install Mac FoneLab (there are versions for Windows and OS X).
3. Connect your mobile device to your computer.
4. Launch Mac FoneLab.
5. Wait until the utility analyzes the mobile device’s memory and displays a list of data that can be recovered.
After this, all that remains is to mark the necessary files and save them in the computer’s memory.
It is worth noting that Mac FoneLab cannot recover all the information that was available on the mobile device. If you want to restore your iPhone, something may be lost. But with the help of this utility, users can return at least part of the data.
The only downside of Mac FoneLab is the price of the application. It can be purchased on the official website for $80. At the same time, from time to time developers give users the opportunity to purchase the utility with big discount. For example, at the time of this writing, Mac FoneLab could be purchased for $48.
In addition, before purchasing, users can familiarize themselves with the application by downloading a free trial version.
How to solve the problem if your iPhone is frozen with the Apple logo on the screen
As mentioned above, sometimes owners apple smartphones and tablets encounter problems during the installation of updates or during the jailbreak procedure. As a result, the iPhone and iPad may simply “freeze” during the startup process, and the screen of the gadgets will constantly display Apple logo. Solving this problem is quite simple, you need to:
What to do:
First of all, calm down, then...
1. Disable your mobile device using one of the available methods.
2. Connect your iPhone to your computer.
3. Launch iTunes.
4. Turn on the device in mode.
(Turn off iPhone while holding Home buttons and Power at the same time, this is the one on the front panel and the one at the end of the phone.
As soon as the screen goes dark, release the Power key on the top end, but keep Home pressed!)
5. After this, a notification should appear on the computer screen indicating that the iPhone needs to be restored.
After pressing the Restore button, the firmware recovery process will begin.
iTunes cord on screen
This most likely happened due to incorrect iPhone firmware, or if the phone is locked to a telecom operator and cannot work with your SIM card.
Likewise, if the iPhone is not activated.
To solve the problem, you need to restore your iPhone in iTunes, as in the previous paragraph.
Other errors you may encounter when restoring an iPhone
- Error 1013, 1014 or 1015
Errors 1013, 1014, and 1015 occur when iTunes tries to downgrade the iPhone's modem version. To solve this problem you need:
6. Follow the instructions in the application. It will help put the device into DFU mode.
After this, you can try to restore the device using the method described above.
- Error 3194
Another fairly common error is error 3194. It occurs when the hosts file is configured to redirect iTunes to the Cydia server. This could be done either manually or using the TinyUmbrella utility. In an attempt to restore the iPhone, iTunes turns to Apple servers, and if it doesn’t find them, it throws an error.
To solve this problem, you need to remove a line like " xx.xxx.xx.xxx gs.apple.com". Find required file You can use the search function, or at the address - system drive\Windows\System32\Drivers\etc.
Does an unsuccessful update threaten to delete files? It is clearly too early to despair - you should not be dictated by a manic thought to quickly take the device for repair. An extra half hour and you're done! Suddenly, once upon a time, foresight forced us to create a backup copy that would keep the data safe and sound. However, even in its absence, you can restore the functionality of your iPhone.
Restore access to iPhone via iTunes
Bad firmware and Jailbreak often disable the system. Don't be scared, as creating a backup copy of your iPhone in iTunes won't be too difficult. This procedure is necessary to avoid unpleasant consequences in the form of file loss.
The whole procedure consists of five simple steps:
1. Check iTunes update and connect the device to the computer.
2. This will be followed by entering a password and checking the computer’s authenticity.
3. Once all the necessary data has been confirmed, a selection of device type (iPhone, iPad, iPod) will appear.
4. Saving the current activity is preceded by encrypting the backup copy. To do this, you need to check the box next to the “Encrypt backup copy” line and also set a password. Thus, it will be possible to preserve the “Activity” of the iPhone and protect it with additional security.
5. Upon completion of the process, you can verify the successful copying of information. You just need to look at the “Browse” tab and find the item “ Latest copy", which shows the date and time of the last save. 
If the alarms are justified - the system crashed, then you should restore the saved version.
Important to know when restoring access to iPhone
If you don't have a backup of your iPhone, there are a few important things to remember:
- all user settings will be reset to factory settings, and therefore all data on the device will be lost;
- You can only restore a phone with a licensed and current firmware version.
For example, you won’t be able to restore an iPhone 4 with outdated firmware 7.0.6 via iTunes. The program will throw an error that cannot be circumvented. This version cannot be rolled back.
Recovering an iPhone via iTunes is easy
Before you think about how to restore an iPhone via iTunes, it is important to remember the basic algorithm:
1. Reset the system to factory settings;
2. Restoring from a backup (if it is missing, a clean image will be recreated).
The first step is to connect the device to a computer with free access to the Internet, from where the application can download updates. After installation is complete new version iTunes should be launched.
It is important to remember that in this way you can restore any iPhone model: 4S, 5S or even 6.
When prompted to enter a password, do not be alarmed, because this procedure provides security for the owner from intruders. Following the instructions, we complete the identification process.
In the “Overview” tab, go to the first section with the “Restore iPhone” button.
In the pop-up window, the developers described all the consequences of system recovery. You must confirm your intention to return the device to factory settings.
The entire system rollback process will take from 5 to 20 minutes. After rebooting, all data and files will be deleted.
Restore iPhone without Using iTunes
Sometimes the computer is not at hand in right moment, and circumstances require you to restore your iPhone without iTunes here and now. The easiest way involves iCloud usage. However, this will transfer a large amount of data, which requires a connection to a Wi-Fi network.
Creating a backup copy will greatly simplify the task, which is solved by the following algorithm:
● First of all, you need to open the settings and find the iCloud tab;
● Click on the “Storage and copies” section; 
- In case of disconnection Reserve copy it should be turned on;
- Either a rollback will require creating a new copy;
Once the backup is created, you can safely proceed to reset to factory settings by first deleting the settings. To do this, you need to return to the main settings menu and find the “Basic” tab and the “Reset” section.
After rebooting the device, a window appears asking you to restore your iPhone using iCloud.
In this case, all data will return to its place.