Restore your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch in iTunes on PC

You can use iTunes to reinstall the software on your device and restore it to its default settings. You might need to do this if you’re having problems with the device (for example, if it freezes or stops responding frequently) or if you’re getting ready to sell it or give it away.

Important: Restoring software on iPhone, iPad or iPod touch deletes all your information and settings. However, iTunes backs up your device before restoring it, so you can use the backup to restore your device to how it was when you last used it.

Restoring software on your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch erases all your information and settings. To find out more about erasing all content and settings, see the Apple Support article Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPad to factory settings.

If you turned on Find My iPhone, Activation Lock is on. You need to turn off Activation Lock before the new owner can activate the iPhone under their own account. For information about turning off Activation Lock, see the topic in the iCloud User Guide Remove a device from Find My iPhone on iCloud.com or the Apple Support article Activation Lock for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch.

Important: Before disconnecting your device from your computer, click the Eject button .