Recovery Mode and DFU Mode are the two tools for fixing iPhones that ordinary troubleshooting can’t reach: a device stuck on the Apple logo, updates that fail repeatedly, or restores that need a specific firmware file. This guide covers the button combinations for every current iPhone model, including the iPhone 17 series, and when each mode is the right choice. Working on an iPad? Use our iPad Recovery Mode and DFU guide instead, since the button combinations differ.
Recovery Mode vs. DFU Mode
| Recovery Mode | DFU Mode | |
|---|---|---|
| What loads | iOS not loaded, but iBoot bootloader is | Nothing, not even the bootloader |
| Screen shows | Recovery screen (cable + computer icon) | Completely black |
| Options in Finder/iTunes | Update (keeps data) or Restore (erases) | Restore only |
| Use for | Failed updates, stuck startup, standard restores | Downgrades, manual IPSW installs, corruption that survives Recovery |
| Risk | Low (try Update before Restore) | Restores erase the device |
The practical rule: Recovery Mode first. It can often fix things without data loss. Move to DFU only when Recovery Mode’s restore also fails, or when you specifically need to install a firmware file yourself. The workflow for that is in our IPSW restoration guide.
Before either: back up if the device is at all functional, charge above 50%, and use an original Apple USB cable plugged directly into the computer. On Windows, the free Apple Devices app from the Microsoft Store works in place of iTunes for these steps.
iPhone 8 and Newer
Covers all Face ID models: iPhone 11 through 17 series, iPhone Air, and iPhone SE 2nd/3rd generation. All use the same sequences.
Recovery Mode
- Connect the iPhone to the computer with an original cable
- Open Finder (macOS Catalina+) or iTunes (Windows)
- Press and quickly release Volume Up
- Press and quickly release Volume Down
- Press and hold the Side button until the recovery screen appears (computer-and-cable icon)
(Official Apple instructions: Apple Support.)
DFU Mode
- Connect the iPhone and open Finder or iTunes
- Press and quickly release Volume Up
- Press and quickly release Volume Down
- Press and hold the Side button for 10 seconds
- While still holding Side, press and hold Volume Down for 5 seconds
- Release Side but keep holding Volume Down for 10 more seconds
- The screen must stay black. If the Apple logo appears, the timing slipped; start over
iPhone 7 and 7 Plus
Recovery Mode
- Connect the iPhone and open Finder or iTunes
- Press and hold Side + Volume Down together until the recovery screen appears
DFU Mode
- Connect the iPhone and open Finder or iTunes
- Hold Side + Volume Down for 8 seconds
- Release the Side button but keep holding Volume Down for 10 seconds
- Screen must stay black; Apple logo means retry
iPhone 6s, 6, SE (1st gen) and Earlier
Recovery Mode
- Connect the iPhone and open Finder or iTunes
- Press and hold Home + Top (Sleep/Wake) together until the recovery screen appears
DFU Mode
- Connect the iPhone and open Finder or iTunes
- Hold Home + Top for 8 seconds
- Release the Top button but keep holding Home for 10 seconds
- Screen must stay black; Apple logo means retry
What to Do Once You’re In
In Recovery Mode, Finder/iTunes offers a choice:
- Update reinstalls iOS without erasing data. Always try this first
- Restore erases the device and installs fresh iOS. Only if Update fails
- To install a specific firmware file instead of the latest: hold Shift (Windows) or Option (Mac), click Restore, and select your IPSW
In DFU Mode, Finder/iTunes only offers Restore, and a restore erases everything. Have the IPSW file ready before you start if you need a specific version, and confirm it’s still signed on our signing status page if you’re downgrading.
Exiting either mode:
- Recovery Mode: unplug, then hold Side/Top until the Apple logo
- DFU Mode: hold Side/Top + Home (or Volume Down on iPhone 7) together for 10–15 seconds until the Apple logo appears
Troubleshooting
Computer doesn’t recognize the device: try a different original cable and a port directly on the computer (not a hub), update iTunes or macOS, restart the computer, and re-enter the mode.
DFU attempt shows the Apple logo: the timing slipped; that’s harmless. The most common mistake is releasing the first button too early in the handoff step. Slow, deliberate presses help.
Recovery loop (device keeps returning to the recovery screen): go straight to DFU restore, and check your IPSW file’s compatibility if you’re selecting one manually.
Restore fails with an error: look up the code in our installation error guide; most map to a bad cable, outdated iTunes/Finder, or an unsigned IPSW.
After a Successful Restore
- Verify the iOS version in Settings > General > About
- Restore your backup or set up as new
- Test calls, messages, and a few key apps
- Make a fresh backup once everything checks out
When to Stop
If restores repeatedly fail, the device reports hardware errors, or it’s been wet or dropped, further button sequences won’t help. That’s a job for Apple Support, a Genius Bar, or an authorized service provider. And if you’ve never needed these modes before, they’re worth practicing once on a healthy device; doing it calmly beats doing it in an emergency.