Error 4005: Device Disconnected During Restore
This error appears when your device disconnects during the update or restore process, or when iTunes/Finder cannot tell the device to restore.
- • On Mac with macOS Catalina 10.15 or later: Ensure your Mac is up to date
- • On Mac with macOS Mojave 10.14 or earlier: Ensure you have the latest version of iTunes
- • On PC: Ensure you have the latest version of iTunes or the Apple Devices app
- 1 Do not disconnect your device during the update process
- 2 Backup your data before attempting a restore
- 1 Device disconnected during the update process
- 2 USB connection became unstable
- 3 Third-party security software interference
- 4 Faulty USB cable or port
- 5 Device entering recovery mode unexpectedly
Understanding Error 4005
Error 4005 occurs when your device disconnects during a restore or when iTunes/Finder cannot tell the device to restore. This is part of the device disconnection error family along with Error 9, Error 4013, and Error 4014.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
1. Force Restart Your Device
A force restart can re-establish communication:
- iPhone 8 or later: Press and quickly release Volume Up, then Volume Down, then press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears
- iPhone 7 series: Press and hold Volume Down + Side button together for at least 10 seconds
- iPhone 6s or earlier: Press and hold Home + Top (or Side) button together for at least 10 seconds
2. Check USB Cable and Port
- Use the original Apple USB cable
- Try a different USB port directly on the computer
- Avoid USB hubs — connect directly
- Clean the device’s charging port
3. Update Your Computer
- macOS: System Settings > Software Update
- Windows: Update iTunes or Apple Devices app
4. Choose Update Instead of Restore
When prompted after Error 4005, choose Update first. This reinstalls iOS without erasing your data. Only choose Restore if Update fails.
5. Try Recovery Mode
- Connect your device to the computer
- Enter recovery mode
- Choose Update first
- If Update fails, choose Restore (erases data)
6. Try DFU Mode
If recovery mode doesn’t resolve Error 4005, try DFU mode for the most thorough restore possible.
7. Try a Different Computer
Restoring on a different computer can help determine if the problem is with your current setup or the device itself.
When to Consider Hardware Repair
If Error 4005 persists across multiple computers and cables, the device may have a hardware fault. Contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Authorized Service Provider.
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If you've tried all the steps above and still can't resolve the issue, you may need to contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store. You can also compare your case against Apple's official iOS update and restore errors page.