Brad’s guide to resetting an Apple iPhone or iPad

I prefer to wipe an Apple device via Software to a computer using tools like iTunes or 3u Tools.

Notice: You need to remove your device from your iCloud account if you plan on getting rid of the phone.

Download the tool for operation:

• iTunes
• 3u Tools

How to use iTunes to Reset your device:

— This works with Windows & Macintosh Environments

1. Install iTunes
2. Put your iPhone or iPad into Recovery (DFU) Mode
   • For iPad & iPhone without a Home button:
     • quickly press Volume Up
     • Then Volume Down
     • Finally press and hold the power button at the top of the device
     • Wait until the device shows a cord icon near the bottom of the device and computer
   • For iPhone & iPad models with a Home button:
     • Hold both the power button on Top of the device and the Home button simultaneously
     • When the device restarts, let go of the power button but continue holding the home button until you see a Computer and Cable reference on the screen.
3. Connect your iPhone or iPad to the Apple or Windows PC that you installed iTunes using the correct USB cable for your device.
4. Access iTunes by double clicking on the program
5. iTunes should detect the device connected and show a prompt to backup the device and restore.
6. Follow the screen and backup the device
7. Select restore to wipe and reload the Apple device.

How to use 3U tools to Reset your device:

— This works with Windows & Macintosh Environments

1. Install 3U tools
2. Put your iPhone or iPad into Recovery (DFU) mode
3. Connect your iPhone or iPad to the Apple/Windows PC that you installed 3u tools on using the correct USB cable for your device.
4. Access 3u tools by double clicking on the program
5. Click the “Flash & JB” Button
6. Click on Easy flash button
7. Look through the list that populated and select the available iOS IPSW for your iPhone
   • This is a good time to update your Apple device
8. Uncheck the “Retain User’s Data while Flashing” to keep from restoring your data
9. Click the Flash option to continue. 
10. The process of 3u Tools will download the Firmware and iOS you selected for your phone and then begin to flash the device.
11. Once the process is complete, unplug the device. Don’t login or we’ll have to start over.

The above article works with all iPhone including iPhone Pro & iPads

– Updated for 2026

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