If your iPhone starts to behaving strangely, apps closing on their own, Wi-Fi not working properly, or you simply want to sell or give it away without leaving a trace of your information, you're probably looking for how to reset the settings. This is a common and very useful action, as it allows you to solve minor problems without having to call technical support or even return the device to its original state, as if it had just left the factory. Let's see How to reset your iPhone settings.
In this article we explain in detail All the ways you can reset your iPhone: from completely erasing all of its content to resetting settings like network settings or just general settingsWhether you're looking for a complete cleanup or a one-time solution to a problem, here you'll find the clearest and safest step-by-step guide to getting your iPhone back to its best condition.
What does it mean to reset an iPhone?
Resetting an iPhone involves returning certain settings to their original state., just as they were when you took them out of the box. Depending on the type of reset you choose, you can completely erase all data or just specific settings. That's why it's important to know what type of reset you need before you begin.
Types of reset available on an iPhone
Apple offers several restore options within the iPhone's settings. Below, we'll look at the most common ones and their purpose:
- Reset all settings: It removes system customizations, Wi-Fi passwords, saved locations, keyboard settings, etc., but it doesn't erase your apps or personal data.
- Reset network settings: This option deletes all saved Wi-Fi connections, VPN settings, Bluetooth, and mobile networks. It's very useful if you're having trouble connecting to a wireless network. If you have questions about this, learn more about the privacy and security settings on your iPhone.
- Reset privacy and location settings: Resets the permissions you gave apps regarding the camera, microphone, location, etc. to factory settings.
- Reset keyboard dictionary: deletes the memorized or personalized words that you have written and that the iPhone has been saving.
- Format iPhone (erase all content and settings): This is a complete restore. It erases absolutely everything: apps, photos, settings, linked accounts, etc.
When is it a good idea to reset all settings?
If your iPhone is experiencing minor issues like disconnecting from Wi-Fi, Bluetooth not working properly, a strange display, or apps crashing, a master settings reset is a good first solution. This type of reset does not delete your apps, photos, or contacts., so it is a fairly safe process.
It's also useful if you've changed a lot of settings and want to start over without erasing your data. For example, if you moved things around in accessibility, display, sound, etc. and can't remember exactly what you changed, resetting settings returns everything to its original state without affecting your files. If you need help, you can read about How to reset your iPad settings.
What happens if I forget my unlock code or Screen Time code?
It is very common to forget the iPhone unlock code, or the Use time (the old parental controls). In that case, you can still use recovery mode by connecting your device to a computer and using apps like Finder or iTunes to restore it.
Of course: Restoring from a backup will not delete the Screen Time codeThat is, even if you restore, if you make a backup and then recover it, the code will still be there. To completely remove it, you'll have to restart your phone as new, without restoring previous data.
How to Reset All Settings on iPhone
If you want to return all iPhone settings to their default state without erasing your data, follow these steps:
- Open the app Settings from your main screen.
- Swipe down and tap on General admission.
- Go to the bottom of the menu and select Transfer or reset iPhone.
- Press on Resetting and then Reset all settings.
- Enter your unlock code if prompted.
- Confirm the action by tapping again on Reset all settings.
This process takes about 5 to 10 minutes. and the iPhone won't delete your photos or apps. Once finished, you should notice an improvement if the issues were due to incorrect settings.
How to completely erase your iPhone and return it to factory settings
If what you need is to delete all iPhone content Before selling, giving it away, or sending it to technical support, you must perform a full factory reset. In this case, all information on your phone will be lost, including photos, videos, contacts, messages, and accounts.
Before doing so, it is It is essential to make a backupMake sure you save your data to iCloud or your computer. To do this:
- Opens Settings and click on your name.
- Go to iCloud and enters ICloud copy.
- Press on Back up now.
Once this is done, you can proceed with the complete erasure from the device:
- Go to Settings > Transfer or reset iPhone.
- Press on Delete content and settings.
- Enter your unlock PIN if prompted.
- Confirm by tapping Continue.
Your iPhone will restart and return to its original state, just as if you had just purchased it.
How to format your iPhone from a Mac or PC
Another way to perform a factory reset is from a computer. This method is recommended when your iPhone is unresponsive, frozen, or you want to perform a clean install. If you're looking for a similar procedure for other devices, you can check out How to factory reset your Apple Watch.
Before starting, Make sure to turn off Find My iPhone. Go to Settings > your account > iCloud > Search and turn it off by entering your Apple ID password.
From a Mac with macOS Catalina or later:
- Connect your iPhone to your Mac using a USB cable.
- Open the app Finder.
- In the left sidebar, locate your iPhone in the section Locations.
- Click on the device and go to the tab General admission.
- Press on Restore iPhone and follow the instructions on the screen.
From a Windows PC or Mac with older versions:
- Open iTunes and connect your iPhone to your computer.
- Select your device at the top.
- Click on Summary and then Restore iPhone.
- Confirm the action and follow the instructions.
This method will install the latest version of iOS and return your device to factory settings.
Why is it important to unlink your Apple ID before selling your iPhone?
If you're selling or giving away your iPhone, simply erasing the data isn't enough. You must unlink your Apple ID so the next user can activate it without any problems. Leaving your iCloud account associated will prevent anyone else from using the phone, as the system will ask for your previous credentials.
To deactivate your Apple ID:
- Go to Settings > your name.
- Swipe down and tap on Logout.
- Enter your password and confirm.
Once this is done, you can perform a hard reset without any problems.
Common mistakes when resetting an iPhone
- Do not backup before reset: You will lose photos, contacts, documents and more.
- Don't sign out of iCloud: the next user will not be able to activate the iPhone.
- Relying on backups with corrupted data: If you restore from a faulty copy, the problem may reappear.
Resetting an iPhone may seem technical, but it's actually a very guided and safe process if you follow the proper steps. Whether you're experiencing Wi-Fi issues or a slow system, or you simply want to hand the phone over to its next owner clean and intact, Apple offers several ways to make it easy. If you make sure to back up, sign out of iCloud, and choose the right method, you'll have your iPhone as good as new in a matter of minutes.
