How to Factory Reset iPhone: Complete Guide 2026

Your iPhone is acting sluggish, freezing randomly, or perhaps you’re preparing to sell it. Whatever the reason, knowing how to factory reset your iPhone properly can save you time and protect your personal data. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about resetting your iPhone in 2026, from backing up your data to troubleshooting common issues.

Introduction to Factory Reset

A factory reset is a powerful process that restores your iPhone to its original factory settings, erasing all personal data, apps, and customizations. This action is often used to resolve persistent software issues, prepare your device for a new owner, or start fresh with a new iPhone. When you factory reset your iPhone, everything from your photos and messages to your app data and settings is wiped clean, returning the device to the state it was in when you first unboxed it.

Before you reset your iPhone, it’s essential to safeguard your important data. Backing up your iPhone data ensures you won’t lose valuable information during the reset process. You can use iCloud to store your backup in the cloud, or connect your device to a computer and use iTunes or Finder to create a local backup. This way, you can easily restore your data to your iPhone or transfer it to a new device after the reset.

To factory reset your iPhone, you have several options. The most straightforward method is through the Settings app, but you can also use iTunes on your computer or erase your device remotely via iCloud if needed. Each method will completely erase your iPhone and return it to factory settings, so always double-check that your backup is complete before you begin the process.

What Factory Reset iPhone Actually Means

A factory reset completely erases all data, settings, apps, and personal information from your iPhone, restoring it to the same state as when it first came out of the box. According to Apple’s official documentation as of January 2026, this process removes your photos, contacts, messages, installed apps, and account information while keeping the current iOS version intact.

It’s crucial to understand that factory reset differs from a hard reset. A hard reset, also called a force restart, simply reboots your frozen iPhone without deleting any data. When you factory reset iPhone, however, everything gets permanently erased unless you’ve created a backup, which puts you at risk of data loss if you haven’t backed up your device. Additionally, any unsaved data from ongoing projects or work-in-progress will be lost during a factory reset, so make sure to save your work and back up your iPhone beforehand.

Essential Steps Before You Reset iPhone

Back Up Your iPhone Data

Creating a backup is the most critical step before you erase iPhone data. You have two main options for backing up your device in 2026.

For iCloud backup, open your Settings app and tap your name at the top. Navigate to iCloud, then iCloud Backup, and tap Back Up Now. Ensure you’re connected to Wi-Fi and have sufficient iCloud storage. Apple provides 5GB free, but you may need to purchase additional space for complete backups.

Alternatively, back up to your computer using Finder on Mac (macOS Catalina or later) or iTunes on Windows. Connect your iPhone with a USB cable, select your device, and click Back Up Now. Computer backups can be encrypted with a password for extra data protection.

Disable Find My iPhone

Before you can factory reset iPhone, you must turn off Find My iPhone, a security-related iPhone feature. This security feature, called Activation Lock, prevents unauthorized access to your device. Go to Settings, tap your name, select Find My, then Find My iPhone, and toggle it off. You’ll need to enter your Apple ID password to confirm.

Sign Out of Your Apple ID

Navigate to Settings and tap your name at the top. Scroll to the bottom and select Sign Out. Enter your Apple ID password when prompted. This step ensures the new owner can set up the device with their own Apple ID if you’re selling or giving away your iPhone.

Additional Preparation for Selling Your iPhone

If you’re preparing to sell or trade in your device, take these extra steps. Unpair your Apple Watch if you have one connected. Remove any credit or debit cards from Apple Pay in the Wallet app. If you’re switching to a non-Apple phone, deregister iMessage to ensure you continue receiving text messages on your new device.

Securing Your Apple Account

Before you factory reset your iPhone, it’s vital to secure your Apple account to protect your personal information and ensure a smooth reset process. Your Apple ID and password are the keys to your device and your data, so make sure you know your credentials before starting. The Settings app is your central hub for managing your Apple account—double-check that your Apple ID information is up to date and that you can access your account.

Disabling Find My iPhone is a crucial step, as this feature is linked to Activation Lock, which prevents unauthorized use of your device. You’ll need to enter your Apple ID password to turn off Find My iPhone, confirming your identity and ensuring that only you can erase or reactivate the device. Additionally, signing out of your Apple account on your iPhone and any connected services helps prevent any lingering connections that could interfere with the reset or future use.

Taking these steps not only streamlines the factory reset process but also protects your Apple account from unauthorized access. Always confirm that you’ve signed out and disabled security features before proceeding with a factory reset.

How to Factory Reset iPhone Through Settings

The simplest method to reset iPhone to factory settings uses the built-in Settings app. This approach works on all iPhone models running iOS 15 or later, including iPhone 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 11, XR, XS, X, 8, 7, and SE. To factory reset an iPhone, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings. This ‘general transfer or reset’ path is the standard method for erasing your device.

Open the Settings app on your iPhone. Tap General, then tap Transfer or Reset iPhone, and select Erase All Content and Settings. The screen will show you what data will be removed, including apps, media, data, and settings. Tap Continue to proceed and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process. To reset an iPhone in 2026, open the Settings app, tap General, then tap Transfer or Reset iPhone, and select Erase All Content and Settings.

Enter your iPhone passcode when requested. You’ll also need to provide your Apple ID password to turn off Activation Lock and remove the device from your account. If you have an eSIM, you can choose to erase it or keep it. Note that if you erase your eSIM, you’ll need to contact your carrier to reactivate your cellular plan.

Tap Erase iPhone to confirm. Wait patiently while the device erases all data and restarts. The process typically takes 5 to 15 minutes depending on how much data needs to be erased. Your screen will go dark, and the device will restart automatically. After a factory reset, your iPhone will restart and display the ‘Hello’ screen for setup.

Factory Reset iPhone Without Password Using Recovery Mode

If you’ve forgotten your passcode or your iPhone is disabled after too many incorrect attempts, you can still erase your locked iPhone using recovery mode. This method is especially useful for a locked iPhone and allows you to factory reset an iPhone without a password using recovery mode or iCloud.

You can also perform a factory reset directly from the Security Lockout screen on an iPhone. If you have previously synced your device to iTunes and forgotten the password, you can use iTunes to factory reset your iPhone.

Below are step by step instructions to factory reset your iPhone using recovery mode:

First, ensure you have the latest version of Finder (Mac) or iTunes (Windows) installed on your computer. Turn off your iPhone by pressing and holding the appropriate buttons until the power slider appears, then drag it to power off.

The button combination to enter recovery mode varies by iPhone model. For iPhone 8 and later models, including iPhone X, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16, to perform a hard reset, press Volume Up, then Volume Down, and then hold the Power button until the Apple logo appears.

To enter recovery mode, press and quickly release the Volume Up button, then press and quickly release the Volume Down button. Next, press and hold the Side button while connecting your iPhone to your computer with a USB cable. Keep holding the Side button until the recovery mode screen appears, showing a computer and cable icon.

For iPhone 7 and 7 Plus, press and hold the Volume Down button and Side button simultaneously while connecting to your computer. For iPhone 6s and earlier, including the first-generation iPhone SE, press and hold both the Home button and the Side (or Top) button together while connecting.

Once your iPhone appears in Finder or iTunes, you’ll see options to Update or Restore. Click Restore to factory reset iPhone. The computer will download the latest iOS version and install it on your device, which may take 15 to 60 minutes. Please wait patiently while the process completes. If the download exceeds 15 minutes and your device exits recovery mode, let the download complete, then repeat the recovery mode steps.

After the restore process finishes, your iPhone will restart and display the setup screen. You can then set it up as new or restore from your backup.

Factory Reset iPhone Using iCloud

If you can’t physically access your iPhone but need to erase it remotely, iCloud provides a solution. This method only works if Find My iPhone was enabled before you lost access to the device, and the iPhone must be connected to the internet.

Using a web browser on any device, go to iCloud.com and sign in with your Apple ID and password. Click Find iPhone (or Find Devices), then click All Devices at the top of the screen. Select the iPhone you want to erase from the device list.

Click Erase iPhone and confirm your decision. iCloud will remotely command your device to erase all content and settings. To factory reset an iPhone without a password via iCloud, you need to remember your Apple ID and password.

After the device is erased, you will need your apple account password to bypass Activation Lock during setup. This process happens the next time your iPhone connects to the internet. Once the erase completes, the device will no longer appear in Find My, and Activation Lock will be disabled.

Using ID Password for Reset

When you factory reset your iPhone, your Apple ID password plays a critical role in the process. You’ll be prompted to enter your Apple ID password to disable Activation Lock and confirm that you have permission to erase the device. This security measure helps protect your iPhone and your data from unauthorized access.

If you’ve forgotten your Apple ID password, don’t worry—you can reset it through the Apple ID account page or by reaching out to Apple Support for assistance. It’s a good idea to use a strong, unique password for your Apple ID to keep your account secure. Having your Apple ID password ready before you begin the reset process will help you avoid unnecessary delays or complications.

During the factory reset, entering your Apple ID password is required to confirm your identity and complete the process. This step ensures that only the rightful owner can reset the device and remove it from their Apple account, keeping your information safe and your device secure.

Hard Reset vs Factory Reset

Understanding the difference between a hard reset and a factory reset can help you choose the right solution for your iPhone issues. A hard reset, also known as a force restart, is a quick way to reboot your iPhone when it’s unresponsive or stuck on a frozen screen. This process does not erase any data or settings—it simply restarts your device, making it useful for resolving minor glitches or temporary software hiccups.

In contrast, a factory reset is a much more comprehensive process. When you factory reset your iPhone, all data, apps, and settings are erased, and the device is restored to its original factory state. This is the best option if you’re experiencing persistent problems, preparing to sell or give away your iPhone, or want a completely fresh start with a new iPhone.

If you’re unsure which method to use, consider the severity of the issue. For minor problems, a hard reset is usually sufficient and won’t risk your data. For more serious issues or when you need to erase all content, a factory reset is the way to go. Always remember to back up your data before performing a factory reset to avoid losing important information.

Understanding What Gets Erased vs What Stays

When you factory reset iPhone, nearly everything gets deleted. Your personal files including photos, videos, messages, contacts, notes, and calendars are completely removed. All installed apps and their associated data disappear.

System settings like Wi-Fi networks, Bluetooth pairings, privacy settings, and display preferences return to defaults. Your Apple ID, iCloud, and all signed-in accounts are removed from the device. Biometric data such as Face ID and Touch ID information is also deleted during a factory reset.

However, certain elements remain unchanged. The iOS version stays the same; factory reset doesn’t downgrade or update your operating system. Pre-installed Apple apps like Camera, Calculator, and Messages remain, though their data is erased. Importantly, your iCloud backup and iTunes backup files are not affected by resetting your iPhone, as these are stored externally on Apple’s servers or your computer.

One critical consideration in 2026 is eSIM handling. Unlike traditional SIM cards, eSIMs are digital and tied to your carrier account. When you reset iPhone to factory settings using the Settings method, you can choose whether to erase or preserve your eSIM. If you erase it, you’ll need to contact your carrier to set up a new eSIM profile. However, restoring via recovery mode does not erase eSIM data automatically.

Troubleshooting Common Factory Reset Problems

Sometimes the reset process doesn’t go smoothly. If your iPhone gets stuck during factory reset or won’t complete the erase process, try these solutions.

When your device appears frozen on the erase screen for more than an hour, perform a force restart. For iPhone 8 and newer, quickly press and release Volume Up, then Volume Down, then press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears. For iPhone 7, press and hold Side and Volume Down together. For iPhone 6s and earlier, press and hold Home and Side buttons simultaneously.

If you’re having trouble accessing your device due to a forgotten passcode or Face ID not working, these issues will appear on the lock screen. In such cases, you may need to use recovery mode or erase your device using a computer.

If “Erase All Content and Settings” isn’t working or the option is grayed out, check your internet connection. A stable Wi-Fi network is required for the feature to function properly. Also verify that Find My iPhone is properly signed out, as this can prevent the reset from proceeding.

For devices showing “iPhone is Supervised and Managed” messages, the device is enrolled in Mobile Device Management. Contact your organization’s IT department to remove the MDM profile before you can factory reset iPhone.

If recovery mode repeatedly fails or your computer doesn’t recognize the device, try different USB cables and ports. Ensure you’re using an Apple-certified Lightning or USB-C cable. Update to the latest version of macOS, Windows, Finder, or iTunes before attempting recovery mode again.

If persistent issues like overheating or failed resets continue after these steps, it’s best to visit a service center for professional assistance.

Restoring Your iPhone After Factory Reset

Once the factory reset completes and your iPhone displays the welcome screen, you have two options for setup. You can set up as a new iPhone, which gives you a completely fresh start with no previous data or settings. Alternatively, restore from backup to retrieve your previous data, apps, and settings.

To restore from iCloud backup, follow the setup prompts until you reach the “Apps & Data” screen. Select “Restore from iCloud Backup” and sign in with your Apple ID. Choose your most recent backup from the list, paying attention to the date and size. The restore process can take 30 minutes to several hours depending on your backup size and internet speed.

For computer backups, select “Restore from Mac or PC” during setup and connect your iPhone to the computer containing your backup. Your data will transfer directly from the backup file.

When to Factory Reset Your iPhone

Knowing when to reset iPhone to factory settings helps you make informed decisions about your device. Factory reset is recommended when selling, trading in, or giving away your iPhone. This ensures your personal information doesn’t transfer to the new owner and prevents them from accessing your accounts or data.

Performance issues that persist after trying other solutions may require a factory reset. If your iPhone experiences constant crashes, severe lag, or apps that won’t open even after updates and restarts, a fresh start through factory reset often resolves these problems. However, this should be a last resort after attempting simpler fixes like updating iOS, clearing storage space, or force restarting.

If you’ve forgotten your iPhone passcode and entered it incorrectly too many times, the device becomes disabled. In this situation, factory reset using recovery mode becomes your only option to regain access. Similarly, if you purchase a used iPhone that’s still signed into the previous owner’s Apple ID, only they can remove Activation Lock, or you’ll need to factory reset and provide proof of ownership to Apple.

Testing has shown that as of January 2026, the entire factory reset process from backup to complete restoration typically takes 30 to 90 minutes, depending on data size and internet speed. The actual erase portion can take a few minutes—usually 5 to 20 minutes on most iPhone models—depending on the device and the amount of data stored.

Protecting Your Data Privacy

Factory reset provides good data protection, but for absolute security when selling your iPhone, understand that standard reset may not make data completely unrecoverable. Apple’s default encryption makes data extremely difficult to access after erase, but advanced forensic tools theoretically could recover fragments.

For maximum security, keep FileVault or device encryption enabled before selling. After factory reset, consider performing a second erase if the device contained highly sensitive information. Most importantly, always back up your data before factory reset and verify the backup succeeded by checking its date and size in iCloud settings or on your computer.

The encryption Apple uses (AES-256) means that when you erase iPhone through official methods, your data becomes virtually impossible to recover for practical purposes. The encryption keys are destroyed during the reset, rendering any remaining data fragments unreadable.

iPhone Model-Specific Considerations

Different iPhone generations have slightly varying procedures. The iPhone 16, 15, 14, and all recent models use the same button combinations as iPhone 8 and later for force restart and recovery mode. These models also support the newest iOS 18 features for data transfer and reset.

Older models like iPhone 6s, 7, and first-generation iPhone SE have physical Home buttons, which changes the button combinations for hard reset and recovery mode entry. These models remain fully supported for factory reset through Settings, though they may take slightly longer to complete the erase process due to older hardware.

All iPhone models from iPhone 6s onwards running iOS 15 or later use the “Transfer or Reset iPhone” menu in Settings. Earlier iOS versions used “Reset” directly under the General menu, leading to the same “Erase All Content and Settings” option.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to factory reset an iPhone? The process typically takes 5 to 20 minutes for the actual erase, though the complete process including backup and restore can take up to 90 minutes depending on data size.

Does factory reset remove viruses or malware? Yes, since factory reset completely erases all software including any malicious apps or files, it effectively removes viruses and malware from your iPhone.

Can I cancel a factory reset once started? No, once you confirm the erase and it begins, the process cannot be stopped or reversed. This is why backup before resetting is crucial.

Will I lose my iCloud photos? Photos stored in iCloud Photos remain safe in your iCloud account. However, photos only stored locally on the device without iCloud backup will be permanently deleted.

Factory reset your iPhone confidently by following these comprehensive steps. Remember that preparation through proper backup protects your valuable data, while understanding the different reset methods ensures you can handle any situation from routine device preparation to emergency recovery. Whether you’re troubleshooting problems, preparing to sell, or simply want a fresh start, these proven methods work reliably on all iPhone models in 2026.