Fix iOS Downgrade Stuck: Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re stuck on the Apple logo, a recovery mode loop, or a frozen progress bar after downgrading iOS, this guide walks you through the exact steps to get your iPhone or iPad working again. You’ll learn how to force restart, use recovery mode, and restore with the correct IPSW file—without losing your data if possible.

What You’ll Need

A computer (Mac or Windows) with the latest version of iTunes (Windows) or Finder (macOS Catalina or later).
A USB cable that supports data transfer (not just charging).
The correct IPSW file for your device and the iOS version you want to downgrade to. You can download it from a trusted source like ipsw.me (links to official Apple servers).
Your Apple ID password (for reactivation after restore).
Patience—restoring can take 10–20 minutes.

Step-by-Step

Force restart your device. This clears temporary glitches that often cause the stuck state. The method varies by model:
- iPhone 8 or later (including SE 2nd gen): Press and quickly release Volume Up, then Volume Down, then press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears (about 10 seconds).
- iPhone 7/7 Plus: Press and hold both the Side and Volume Down buttons for at least 10 seconds.
- iPhone 6s or earlier, iPad with Home button: Press and hold both the Home and Top/Side buttons for at least 10 seconds.
If the device boots normally, you’re done—the downgrade may have just needed a restart. If it’s still stuck, proceed to the next step.
Put your device into recovery mode. Connect it to your computer, then force restart again while holding the appropriate button (same as above) but keep holding until you see the recovery mode screen—a computer icon with a lightning cable.
When prompted, your computer should show a dialog saying “There is a problem with the iPhone that requires it to be updated or restored.” Click Restore (not Update). This will erase your device and install the latest iOS—not the downgrade version. That’s fine for now; we’ll get the downgrade working next.
After the restore completes, your device will reboot with the latest iOS. Set it up minimally (skip Apple ID, passcode, etc.) to reach the home screen.
Now, to actually downgrade, you need to use the IPSW file. Download the correct IPSW for your device and the iOS version you want (e.g., iOS 17.5 for iPhone 12). Make sure it matches your exact model number (e.g., A2172 for iPhone 12).
Put your device back into recovery mode (same as step 3).
On your computer, hold the Option key (Mac) or Shift key (Windows) and click the Restore button in Finder/iTunes. A file browser will open—select the IPSW file you downloaded.
Confirm the restore. Your device will be erased and the downgrade installed. This can take 15–30 minutes. Do not disconnect the cable during this time.
Once done, your device will reboot. If it gets stuck again, try the next troubleshooting section.

Common Mistakes

Using the wrong IPSW file. A mismatched file (wrong model or wrong iOS version) will cause an error or a stuck state. Double-check your exact model number in Settings > General > About.
Not updating iTunes/Finder. Older versions may not support the iOS version you’re trying to install. Update to the latest version first.
Interrupting the restore. Unplugging the cable or letting the computer sleep mid-restore can corrupt the installation.
Skipping the force restart. Many “stuck” issues are just temporary glitches that a simple restart fixes.
Downgrading to an unsigned iOS. Apple only signs recent versions. If the version you want is no longer signed, the restore will fail with error 3194 or similar. Check signing status on ipsw.me.

Tips

Back up your data before downgrading. Restoring erases everything. Use iCloud or a local backup via Finder/iTunes, but note that a backup from a newer iOS may not restore to an older one.
Use a USB port directly on your computer, not a hub, to avoid connection drops.
Disable Find My iPhone before restoring, as it can cause activation locks during the setup process.
Try a different cable or port if the restore keeps failing—faulty cables are a common cause of errors.
Keep your device charged. Plug it into a wall charger if the battery is low, but keep the computer connection for the restore.

Troubleshooting

Error 3194, 4013, or 4014: These indicate communication issues or unsigned software. Update iTunes/Finder, try a different USB port, and ensure the IPSW is for a signed iOS version. If the error persists, try a different computer.
Stuck on Apple logo after restore: Force restart again. If that doesn’t work, put the device in recovery mode and restore again with the same IPSW.
Recovery mode loop (keeps restarting to recovery): This usually means the restore failed. Connect to your computer and restore again. If it still loops, try using a different IPSW (maybe a different iOS version) or check that your cable is working.
Device not recognized by computer: Try a different cable, port, or computer. Install the latest drivers for your device (Windows) or update macOS.
Activation lock after restore: Enter your Apple ID credentials. If you don’t have them, you’ll need to contact Apple Support—there’s no workaround.
If all else fails, restore to the latest iOS (not the downgrade) to get a working device. Then attempt the downgrade again with a fresh IPSW download.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I downgrade to any iOS version?
A: No, Apple only signs recent versions. You can only downgrade to a version that is still being signed. Check ipsw.me for current signing status.

Q: Will I lose my data when downgrading?
A: Yes, restoring to a different iOS version erases your device. You can restore from a backup made on the same iOS version, but not from a backup of a newer version.

Q: What is recovery mode?
A: Recovery mode is a special state that allows your device to be restored or updated via a computer. It appears as a computer icon with a cable on the screen.

Q: How long does a downgrade take?
A: The restore process typically takes 10–30 minutes, depending on the size of the IPSW and your computer’s speed. Do not interrupt it.

Q: Can I downgrade without a computer?
A: No, you need a computer with Finder or iTunes to restore an IPSW file. There is no way to do it directly on the device.

Q: What should I do if I get error 14?
A: Error 14 often indicates a hardware or cable issue. Try a different cable, port, or computer. If it persists, the device may need service—contact Apple Support.

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

More in this bed

The whole Tech How-To bed →