How to Put Your iPhone in Device Firmware Update (DFU) Mode

We all know how frustrating it can be when our iPhones start malfunctioning or acting up for no apparent reason. Certain functions may stop working properly, apps can crash frequently, the device gets stuck on the Apple logo during startup – the issues can vary.

While a simple restart or toggling some settings on and off can fix minor software glitches, sometimes you need to dig deeper to resolve the problems. This is where the Device Firmware Update (DFU) mode comes into play.

The DFU mode allows you to completely reinstall the iPhone‘s firmware and software, often fixing many system-level issues. It‘s an advanced troubleshooting step before you decide to give up and visit the service center.

In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll explain what the DFU mode is, when you should use it, and walk you through the steps to put your iPhone into DFU mode. Let‘s get started!

What is the DFU Mode on iPhones?

DFU stands for Device Firmware Update. It‘s a low-level diagnostic mode that provides access to the iPhone‘s internals and firmware.

Here are some key things about the DFU mode:

It allows re-installation of the entire OS, firmware, drivers, and software.
It can fix serious issues related to crashes, freezes, etc.
The screen remains black when the device is in DFU mode.
You need a computer with iTunes or Finder to utilize the DFU mode.
It‘s similar to the recovery mode, but DFU provides deeper access.

Essentially, the DFU mode replaces your current iOS version and data with a fresh copy by Apple. It‘s the last resort before you take your device for hardware-level repairs.

When Should You Use the DFU Mode?

You don‘t need to put your iPhone into DFU mode for general software issues. The recovery mode or restarting the device can fix them.

Reserve the DFU mode for serious system-level problems unresolved using regular methods.

Here are some examples of when to use the DFU mode:

If your iPhone gets stuck on the Apple logo during start up
To downgrade from the latest iOS version due to compatibility issues
To uninstall or reinstall a buggy iOS update
If you want to jailbreak or un-jailbreak your iPhone
To solve repeated crashes, lags, or freezes
To remove an expired iOS beta version

Essentially, use the DFU when you think the issue lies in the firmware or OS rather than just an app or settings. It wipes the device completely and reinstalls iOS freshly.

Before You Begin – Important Tips

Putting your iPhone into DFU mode will erase all data, so crucial prep steps are needed:

Back up your iPhone – You‘ll lose all data, so back up important photos, videos, messages, notes, etc. Backup to iCloud or iTunes.
Have iTunes or Finder ready – You need a computer with the latest iTunes (Windows) or Finder (Mac) app to utilize the DFU mode. Set this up beforehand.
Charge your iPhone sufficiently – Don‘t let the battery die out during the DFU process. Charge over 50%.
Connect your iPhone to the computer – Use the original lightning cable for a smooth DFU mode experience.
Allot 15-20 minutes – You‘ll need some time and patience for the DFU process, so keep this in mind.
Follow the steps precisely – Carefully follow the instructions below. Mistakes can cause technical issues.

Now that you know the prerequisites, let‘s look at how to put your iPhone into the DFU mode.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using DFU Mode on iPhone

Follow these steps carefully to successfully enter DFU mode and reinstall iOS on your iPhone:

1. Install iTunes or Finder

First, install the latest version of iTunes (Windows) or Finder (Mac) on your computer. These apps allow utilizing the DFU mode.

For iTunes, visit Apple‘s website. For Finder, ensure your macOS is updated.

2. Connect iPhone and Launch Software

Connect your iPhone to the computer using the original lightning cable.

Next, launch iTunes or Finder on the computer, depending on your OS.

3. Backup Your iPhone

Backup your iPhone‘s data via iCloud or iTunes so you have a copy when the device is wiped in DFU.

To backup via iTunes, click on the iPhone icon and then select ‘Backup Now‘. For iCloud, enable iCloud Backup in your iPhone settings.

4. Put Your iPhone into Recovery Mode

As a first step, put your iPhone into recovery mode:

Press and hold the Side button and either Volume button until the recovery mode screen appears.

5. Hard Reset iPhone

Now perform a hard reset:

Let go of the Side and Volume buttons once recovery mode initiates.
Press and release the Volume Up button.
Immediately press and release the Volume Down button.
Finally, press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears.

This will force your iPhone to exit recovery and restart.

6. Put iPhone into DFU Mode

You‘re now ready to put the iPhone into DFU mode:

Press and hold the Side button and the Volume Down button together for 10 seconds.
Release the Side button while still holding the Volume Down button for 5 more seconds.

If done correctly, your iPhone screen will turn black, and iTunes/Finder will recognize it‘s in recovery mode.

7. Restore Your iPhone

iTunes/Finder will detect your iPhone in recovery mode and ask you to Restore. Doing this will wipe the device and reinstall the firmware:

Click on Restore to confirm. DO NOT disconnect your iPhone during this process.
The firmware will be freshly installed. This can take several minutes.

Once done, you‘ll see the regular iPhone setup screen to create a new password and restore your backup.

That‘s it! Your iPhone should now be out of any serious crashes or freezes. The DFU mode has restored the firmware, OS, and software to default settings.

How to Exit DFU Mode on iPhone

Don‘t worry if you accidentally put your iPhone into DFU mode and changed your mind about restoring it.

You can exit DFU mode without wiping your iPhone like this:

Press and hold the Side button and either Volume button until the recovery mode screen appears.
Next, hard reset the iPhone:
- Press and release Volume Up
- Press and release Volume Down
- Press and hold the Side button until Apple logo appears

This will restart your iPhone normally, exiting the recovery mode. Phew!

Troubleshooting DFU Mode Issues

Here are some common DFU mode issues and fixes:

iPhone not entering DFU mode – Try pressing the button sequence more slowly. Or use another lightning cable.
iPhone stuck on Apple logo after DFU – Hard reset by pressing and holding the Side and either Volume button for 10+ seconds.
iPhone not responding in iTunes/Finder – Reconnect the cable properly and restart both devices.
Restore not working – Update iTunes/Finder and retry. Or use a different USB port on your computer.
iPhone screen remains black – This is normal in DFU mode. Wait for iTunes to detect the device.
iPhone shows recovery mode instead of DFU – You likely held the buttons for too short in Step 6. Retry entering DFU.
Computer not detecting iPhone – Try a different lightning cable, USB port, or computer if possible.

If the issues persist, it‘s best to visit an Apple service center for advanced troubleshooting. Hardware damage can also cause DFU and restore to not work properly.

Frequently Asked Questions about iPhone DFU Mode

Here are answers to some common queries about the DFU mode:

Does DFU mode delete everything?

Yes, restoring your iPhone via DFU mode erases all contents and settings. Be sure to backup important data before entering DFU.

Is DFU mode same as recovery mode?

No, DFU mode is more advanced than recovery mode. It reinstalls the full firmware and software.

Can I exit DFU mode without restoring?

Yes, you can exit DFU by hard resetting your iPhone without having to restore and wipe data.

Does DFU mode reset jailbreak?

Yes, the DFU mode restore will wipe out any jailbreak on your iPhone completely.

Will I lose iOS update?

The DFU mode will install the latest signed iOS firmware version. So you may lose any specific iOS version installed earlier.

Is DFU mode safe?

Yes, DFU is an official Apple mode and is safe when instructions are followed accurately.

Can I use DFU mode on iPad and iPod Touch?

Yes, the DFU mode process remains same for the iPad and iPod Touch devices too.

Conclusion

The iPhone DFU mode lets you fix complicated firmware-related issues by completely reinstalling iOS. While it wipes your device, the process is safe and official by Apple.

Follow the steps above carefully to utilize the DFU mode when needed. Ensure your data is backed up, install iTunes/Finder, and allot sufficient time for the restore process.

Also, troubleshoot common DFU problems using the solutions provided. With some patience, you can have your iPhone running like new again after using the DFU mode!