Welcome to dotIPSW.com.
dotIPSW is a website that provides download links for IPSW files for Apple devices such as iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.
The mission of dotIPSW is to make it easy for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch users to download IPSW files. These files are not only used for updating or upgrading iOS/iPadOS but are also helpful in troubleshooting common issues that may arise with these devices.
What is IPSW?
According to Wikipedia:
IPSW, iPod Software, is a file format used in iTunes to install iOS, iPadOS, tvOS and HomePod firmware. All Apple devices share the same IPSW file format for iOS firmware and their derivatives, allowing users to flash their devices through iTunes on macOS and Windows.
Wikipedia
What is the difference between IPSW and iOS?
The operating systems for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch are known as iOS and iPadOS, while IPSW refers to the format of their installation files.
What is the difference between iOS and iPadOS?
iOS is the operating system specifically designed for iPhones, offering a seamless user experience tailored to smartphone functionalities. On the other hand, iPadOS is a variant of iOS developed for iPads, featuring enhancements and features that take advantage of the larger screen, such as improved multitasking and a desktop-like experience.
How do I open an IPSW file?
An IPSW file is not typically opened or run directly by regular users. Although the contents of an IPSW file can be extracted and viewed, the file is only useful when used with iTunes for updating or restoring (reinstalling iOS/iPadOS). Since IPSW files can only be used with iTunes, it is recommended that you have iTunes installed on your computer before downloading an IPSW file.
Is it safe to download IPSW files from this site?
All IPSW files available through links on dotIPSW are sourced directly from Apple’s servers. The website does not host these files but only provides the download links.
What if the downloaded IPSW file is not compatible?
iTunes will halt the upgrade/restore process if it detects an incompatible IPSW file. Therefore, your device will not be damaged by installing the wrong version of iOS/iPadOS. The only inconvenience of downloading an incompatible IPSW file is that you will need to download the correct file for your device and repeat the update/restore process.
What files can be downloaded from dotIPSW?
dotIPSW only provides download links for IPSW files for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. Additionally, you can also download iTunes for Windows from the link available on the iTunes page.