DFU Mode (Device Firmware Update) is an advanced feature available on Apple devices that allows users to interact directly with the device's firmware by bypassing the operating system. This mode is very useful for critical situations, such as fixing serious software bugs or reinstalling a version of iOS. In this mode, the iPhone or iPad can be restored even when the operating system is completely corrupted.
For example, with DFU Mode, you can fix iPhones or iPads that repeatedly restart or get stuck on a white screen without responding to commands.
Examples of problems that can be solved with DFU mode:
- How to Fix an iPhone or iPad Stuck in Boot Loop
- iPhone stuck with white screen? See the resolutions.
Also, after a hardware repair or replacement, a full restoration in DFU mode may be required to ensure proper operation of the device.
Table of Contents
How to enter DFU Mode with an iPhone device
Before you begin, you should know that entering DFU mode and restoring your device can erase all your data. Make sure you've backed it up before you start.
Make sure you have the latest version of iTunes (if you're using Windows PC) or macOS Catalina (and later) installed on your Mac. You should also have your Lightning or USB-C data cable ready (depending on your device model).
Depending on your iPhone device model, enter DFU mode by following the steps below:
iPhone 6S and older models
1. Connect your device to your computer.
2. Turn off your device if it's not already turned off.
3. Press and hold the ON/OFF button for 3 seconds.
4. Press and hold the Home button together with the ON/OFF button for 10 seconds.
5. Release the ON/OFF button, but continue to hold down the Home button for another 5 seconds.
If the screen remains black, the device is in DFU mode. If you see the Apple logo displayed, you've pressed the buttons for too long and you'll need to start the process again.
iPhone X, iPhone 8, iPhone 7
For these models, the input into DFU Mode is done a little differently, as the physical HOME button has been replaced with a capacitive one.
1. Connect your device to your Mac or PC and open iTunes.
2. Turn off your iPhone.
3. Press and hold the ON/OFF button for 3 seconds.
4. Press and hold the volume down button for 10 seconds, holding down the ON/OFF button.
5. Release the ON/OFF button and keep holding the volume down button for another 5 seconds.
If the screen remains black, you have successfully entered DFU mode.
DFU mode for iPhone 15 or iPhone 16
1. Use the original data cable that came with your device and connect your iPhone to your computer or laptop.
2. After the device is connected, press and releasethe volume button up, then press and releasethe volume button down.
3. Press and hold on toThe side button (Side)For up to 10 seconds, until the screen becomes black.
4. While you hold pressedThe side button, presses and holds and holds andthe volume button downfor about 5 seconds.
5. After 5 seconds, releaseThe side button, but you keep holding upthe volume button down.
6. Releasethe volume button downWhen you notice a message in iTunes or Finder saying:
“Your Mac has detected an iPhone in recovery mode. You must restore this iPhone before it can be used.”
7. Now, your iPhone is in DFU mode.
What is the difference between Recovery Mode and DFU Mode?
Unlike Recovery Mode, DFU mode allows you to fully update or restore firmware without loading iOS. In fact, the Apple logo that appears when the device starts up will not be displayed when entering this mode either.
Recovery Mode partially loads the operating system to display the "Plug into iTunes" screen, while DFU mode completely bypasses this stage, leaving the screen black and giving you deeper control over your device. Although it may seem intimidating, using DFU mode is often the only solution to complex Apple device issues.
How to get out of DFU mode on iPhone 15/16:
To get out of DFU mode simply perform a forced restart of the device, following the steps:
1. Press and release quicklythe volume button up.
2. Press and release quicklythe volume button down.
3. HoldThe side button (Side)until the Apple logo appears.
Conclusion
DFU mode is a very important feature for iPhone users who are facing complex software issues or who want to have more advanced control over their device. Although it may seem complicated at first glance, the steps to activate this mode are relatively simple, as long as they are followed carefully. It's important to note that using DFU mode erases all data on your device, which is why a backup is crucial.
Whether it's fixing a serious bug, reinstalling firmware, or even downgrading to a previous version of iOS, DFU mode remains a powerful and effective tool. However, we only recommend using it when other methods, such as Recovery Mode, don't work, or when you're sure you know what you're doing.
