Getting stuck in DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode or seeing the dreaded “iPhone could not be restored” error can feel like a nightmare. Maybe you were updating to a new iOS, trying a restore, or experimenting with beta software — and now your iPhone is stuck on a black screen or keeps looping with error messages.
The good news? You don’t need to spend money on paid tools right away. There are free methods you can try to get your iPhone back to life. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the most reliable solutions.
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| How Fix iPhone Could Not Be Restored or Stuck in DFU Mode |
Why Your iPhone Gets Stuck in DFU Mode
DFU mode is designed as a deep restore option for iOS devices. But sometimes, instead of fixing things, you end up stuck in it. Common reasons include:
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Failed iOS update or restore.
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Corrupted IPSW firmware file.
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Using an outdated version of iTunes/Finder.
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Hardware communication errors (cable or port issue).
Solution 1: Force Restart Your iPhone
Sometimes the simplest fix is the one that works. Try force restarting your device:
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iPhone 8 and later (including iPhone X, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15):
Quickly press and release Volume Up, then Volume Down, then press and hold Power (Side button) until the Apple logo appears. -
iPhone 7 / 7 Plus:
Press and hold Volume Down + Power together until you see the Apple logo. -
iPhone 6s and earlier:
Press and hold Home + Power until the Apple logo shows up.
If your phone boots normally, you’re done!
Solution 2: Update iTunes or Finder
If you’re restoring through a computer, make sure you’re using the latest version of iTunes (on Windows) or Finder (on macOS). Outdated software often causes restore errors.
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On Windows: Open iTunes → Help → Check for Updates.
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On Mac: Update macOS from System Preferences.
Solution 3: Use Recovery Mode (Free Alternative to DFU)
If DFU isn’t working, switch to Recovery Mode:
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Connect your iPhone to your computer.
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Force restart (as explained above), but keep holding until you see the Recovery Mode screen (cable + computer icon).
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On iTunes/Finder, you’ll see options: Update or Restore.
Choose Update first (this reinstalls iOS without wiping data). If that fails, then try Restore (erases everything but fixes the issue).
Solution 4: Download IPSW Manually
If iTunes can’t restore automatically, you can manually download the right firmware for your iPhone:
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Go to ipsw
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Select your iPhone model and download the latest signed iOS version.
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Open iTunes/Finder → connect your iPhone.
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Hold Shift (Windows) or Option (Mac) and click Restore iPhone.
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Select the IPSW you downloaded.
This often bypasses the “iPhone could not be restored” error.
Solution 5: Try a Different Cable or USB Port
It sounds silly, but many restore errors come from faulty Lightning cables or unstable USB ports. Always use an official or certified cable, and try plugging directly into your computer’s main USB port (not a hub).
Final Thoughts
Most iPhones stuck in DFU mode or showing restore errors can be fixed with force restarts, Recovery Mode, or manual IPSW restores — all completely free. Paid tools exist, but you don’t need them for these basic fixes.
If none of the above works, the issue might be hardware-related (like NAND or logic board problems), in which case visiting an Apple Store or repair shop is the last resort.
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