“Restore” can mean either putting your data back from a backup or erasing the iPhone or iPad and reinstalling its software. Choose the operation first: a backup restore brings back data from an existing iCloud or computer backup, while a factory restore erases the device. If a forgotten passcode or startup problem prevents a normal restore, recovery mode provides a computer-based route—but it also erases the device.
Choose the right kind of restore
| Option | What it does | Use it when |
|---|---|---|
| Restore from iCloud backup | Returns personal data from a selected existing iCloud backup during setup. | You have a suitable iCloud backup and can sign in to your Apple Account, connect to Wi-Fi, and allow time for content to download. |
| Restore from computer backup | Returns data stored in a Finder, Apple Devices, or iTunes backup. | You have a suitable computer backup. An encrypted backup requires its password; an unencrypted computer backup does not transfer Health and Activity data. Apple explains computer backup contents. |
| Factory restore | Erases information and settings, then installs the latest software available for the device. | You want a clean software restore or are preparing the device for handoff. |
| Recovery-mode restore | Starts a computer restore when ordinary startup or recognition does not work; the restore erases data. | The device cannot be recovered normally, the passcode is unavailable, or Apple’s recovery-mode conditions apply. |
Apple’s guidance for restoring from a backup and restoring factory software describes different workflows and outcomes.
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Restore an iPhone or iPad from a computer backup
Before you start
- On a Mac, use Finder. On Windows, use Apple Devices; use iTunes if Apple Devices is not installed. For macOS Mojave or earlier, use iTunes.
- If the device has already completed setup, erase it before starting the backup restore. Erasing removes its current content and settings.
- Have the password ready if the computer backup is encrypted.
Restore the backup
- Connect the iPhone or iPad to the computer with a USB cable.
- Open Finder, Apple Devices, or iTunes, as appropriate. If prompted, unlock the device or choose “Trust This Computer” and follow the on-screen steps.
- Select the device in the app, then choose Restore Backup.
- Choose the backup you want, checking its date. Enter the encryption password if asked.
- Keep the device connected after it restarts until syncing finishes.
Apple’s computer and iCloud backup restore instructions cover the app choice and restore sequence. If you restore from an iCloud backup instead, follow the on-screen setup process, select the appropriate backup, sign in to your Apple Account, and stay connected to Wi-Fi while content downloads.
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Erase and reinstall the iPhone or iPad software
A factory restore deletes information and settings; it is not the way to recover data from a backup. Back up the device first if possible. Apple’s computer restore procedure also calls for turning off Find My and entering your Apple Account password. Update the Mac or PC before starting.
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- Turn off Find My on the device and have your Apple Account password available.
- Connect the device to the computer and open Finder on a Mac or Apple Devices on a PC.
- Select the device and choose Restore [device], then confirm.
- Allow the computer to erase the device and install the latest software available for it.
For Windows, Apple’s iTunes restore guidance also explains that software restoration deletes information and settings. Activation Lock must be addressed before a new owner can activate the device. Restoring an iPhone does not delete its eSIM, according to Apple’s factory restore instructions.
Reset an iPad when you forgot its passcode
Apple’s computer reset process removes the iPad’s data and settings, including the passcode. It requires a Mac or Windows PC, internet access, and a cable that can charge the iPad; Apple says to allow up to 60 minutes for this process. On Windows, use Apple Devices. Button instructions differ between iPad models with and without a Home button, so follow Apple’s model-specific instructions rather than applying one sequence to every iPad.
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- Turn off the iPad using the instructions for its model.
- Connect it to the computer while holding the model-specific button or buttons until the recovery screen showing a computer and cable appears.
- In Finder or Apple Devices, select the iPad and choose Restore.
- If the software download takes more than 15 minutes and the iPad leaves recovery mode, let the download finish, then put the iPad into recovery mode again and continue.
Follow Apple’s full, model-specific instructions to reset an iPad and its passcode using a Mac or PC.
When to use recovery mode for other restore problems
Recovery mode is a troubleshooting step when a normal restore or startup is not working. Apple identifies these situations as reasons to use it for an iPad:
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- The computer does not recognize the iPad, or says the iPad is in recovery mode.
- The Apple logo has remained on screen for several minutes without a progress bar.
- The iPad displays the recovery screen.
- Recovery Assistant starts repeatedly without recovering the iPad.
Update the Mac, or update Apple Devices or iTunes on a PC, before continuing. Connect the iPad, enter recovery mode using its model-specific buttons, select it in Finder or Apple Devices, and choose Restore. This erases the device. Apple’s recovery-mode guidance lists the triggering conditions and steps.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.If the computer does not recognize the device
- Use the app that matches your platform: Finder on Mac, Apple Devices on Windows, or iTunes on Windows if Apple Devices is not installed. For macOS Mojave or earlier, use iTunes.
- Unlock the device and accept a “Trust This Computer” prompt if it appears.
- Try a compatible, data-capable USB cable that can connect to both the device and computer. Check both connector ends; a new cable is not necessarily required.
- If the iPad still cannot be recognized or displays a recovery screen, follow Apple’s recovery-mode steps rather than repeating an ordinary restore.
If you cannot reset the device using a computer, contact Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider.
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