What Is iPhone DFU Mode?

DFU stands for Device Firmware Update. DFU mode allows an iPhone to communicate with a computer without starting iOS or displaying the normal recovery-mode screen. It is generally used for advanced troubleshooting when a standard update or recovery-mode restore has failed.

Before You Begin

  • Connect the iPhone to the computer with a dependable USB cable.
  • On a Mac with macOS Catalina or later, open Finder. On a Windows PC, open the Apple Devices app. Older computers may use iTunes.
  • Make sure the computer recognizes the connected iPhone.
  • Select the instructions below for your specific iPhone model.

Enter DFU Mode on iPhone 8 or Later

These instructions apply to iPhone 8 and later, including newer iPhone SE models that use the iPhone 8 button sequence.

  1. Press and quickly release the Volume Up button.
  2. Press and quickly release the Volume Down button.
  3. Press and hold the Side button until the screen turns completely black.
  4. As soon as the screen turns black, hold the Side and Volume Down buttons together for approximately five seconds.
  5. Release the Side button while continuing to hold Volume Down for approximately ten seconds.
  6. Release the button when Finder, Apple Devices, or iTunes detects an iPhone that needs to be restored.

The iPhone screen should remain completely black. If the Apple logo appears, the Side button was held too long. If the cable-and-computer recovery screen appears, the button timing was incorrect. Restart the iPhone and try again.

Enter DFU Mode on iPhone 7 or iPhone 7 Plus

  1. Connect the iPhone to the computer.
  2. Turn off the iPhone.
  3. Press and hold the Side button for approximately three seconds.
  4. While continuing to hold the Side button, press and hold Volume Down.
  5. Hold both buttons together for approximately ten seconds.
  6. Release the Side button while continuing to hold Volume Down for approximately five to ten seconds.
  7. Release the button when the computer detects an iPhone that needs to be restored.

Enter DFU Mode on iPhone 6s, First-Generation iPhone SE, or Earlier

  1. Connect the iPhone to the computer.
  2. Turn off the iPhone.
  3. Press and hold the Side or Top button for approximately three seconds.
  4. While continuing to hold that button, press and hold the Home button.
  5. Hold both buttons together for approximately ten seconds.
  6. Release the Side or Top button while continuing to hold the Home button for approximately five to ten seconds.
  7. Release the Home button when the computer detects an iPhone that needs to be restored.

How to Exit iPhone DFU Mode

iPhone 8 or Later

  1. Press and quickly release Volume Up.
  2. Press and quickly release Volume Down.
  3. Hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears.

iPhone 7 or iPhone 7 Plus

Hold the Side and Volume Down buttons together until the Apple logo appears.

iPhone 6s, First-Generation iPhone SE, or Earlier

Hold the Home and Side or Top buttons together until the Apple logo appears.

DFU Mode Versus Recovery Mode

DFU mode and recovery mode are different. Recovery mode displays a cable-and-computer image and may allow the computer to attempt an update before erasing the device. DFU mode leaves the screen black and is intended for deeper firmware restoration. Try standard recovery mode before using DFU mode whenever possible.

If the computer does not detect the iPhone, check the USB cable and port, restart Finder, Apple Devices, or iTunes, and repeat the correct button sequence. If the iPhone still cannot be updated or restored, professional diagnosis may be required.