What Is iPhone DFU Mode and How Do I Use It [2023]

iPhone has been a great innovation introduced in the market since the last decade. While the device has been a haven for many technological advancements and innovations, there are multiple software issues reported against it. For different software issues and faults in devices, various tricks have been normalized among users. One trick involves using iPhone DFU Mode, which helps users restore their devices and make them new again.

This article will take up the discussion of iPhone DFU Mode and provide a comprehensive guide explaining how to use it. After reading this article, you will know how to manage your iPhone in DFU Mode.

What Is iPhone DFU Mode

DFU Mode on an iPhone, also known as Device Firmware Upgrade, involves the management of the firmware of the device, as stated by the name. It turns out as a great technique to restore an iPhone with the help of a computer. iPhones are put into the DFU Mode to put them into working order. Devices that are facing extensive working disorders and faults are managed through DFU Mode, which helps them in restoring the iPhone completely.

The iPhone DFU Mode performs similarly to the BIOS in Windows computers, taking users below the operating system and into the depths. Although moving into the mode does not change anything in the device, it allows the user to perform actions that can help them make multiple changes in the iOS device.

At times, users who wish to install older iOS versions consider putting their devices into the iPhone DFU Mode for quick and effective results. When an iPhone is put in the DFU Mode, it helps users access iTunes and Finder at comprehensively deeper levels, which is more than the standard accessibility.

How to Enter iPhone DFU Mode

If you are discovering the proper technique for entering the iPhone DFU Mode, this section provides proper directions. Depending on the device you are using, follow the guidelines provided next for putting your iPhone in DFU Mode:

For iPhone 8 and Later Models

Step 1. You must connect your iPhone to the computer through a lightning cable and proceed to press and release the "Volume Up" button.

Step 2. Following this, press and release the "Volume Down" button, and continue to press the "Power" button for 10 seconds.

Step 3. As the screen turns black, continue to hold the "Power" button and "Volume Down" button for 5 seconds. Continue to hold the "Volume Down" button for another 10 seconds.

Step 4. As you release the "Volume Down" button, a pop-up appears on Finder or iTunes showing that the iPhone is detected. Tap on "Restore" to continue restoring the device.

For iPhone 7 and 7 Plus

Step 1. Start by connecting the iPhone to the computer using a USB cable and hold the "Power" button for 3 seconds.

Step 2. Press the "Volume Down" and the "Power" buttons for 10 seconds. After this, release the "Power" button and hold the "Volume Down" button for another 5 seconds.

Step 3. During the process, the screen remains black and will enter the DFU Mode, which will be notified by a pop-up on iTunes or Finder. Tap on "Restore" on the computer to restore your device successfully.

For iPhone 6s and Earlier

Step 1. Connect your iPhone with a lightning cable and hold the "Power" button for 3 seconds. Hold the "Power" button and start holding the "Home" button too. Keep holding these buttons for 10 more seconds.

Step 2. Release the "Power" button and hold the "Home" button for 5 more seconds. The iPhone screen remains black, and a notification appears on iTunes or Finder.

Step 3. Select the "Restore" button to restore the device and resolve its issues and faults.

How to Exit iPhone DFU Mode

To exit the iPhone DFU Mode, you must force restart your iPhone. Doing this will put your device back to its normal state. The method of force restarting the iPhone is different for the models, which is presented below:

For iPhone 8 and Later Models: Press the "Volume Up" button and continue with the "Volume Down" button. Hold the "Power" button for a few seconds as you release it until the Apple logo appears on the screen.

For iPhone 7 and 7 Plus: To force restart, hold the "Power" and "Volume Down" buttons until the Apple logo appears on the screen.

For iPhone 6s and Earlier Models: Hold the "Power" and "Home" buttons simultaneously for a few seconds until the Apple logo appears on your iPhone's screen.

What to Do When Stuck in DFU Mode

If you have discovered that your iPhone is not getting out of the DFU mode, you will have to try some quick remedies. Starting with the first one, it is better to use iTunes or Finder to restore your iPhone properly. The iPhone will restore, and it will restart normally for you. On the other hand, if you intend to avoid the loss of your data, you can try using the option of contacting Apple Support Centers.

FAQs on iPhone DFU Mode

To get a better understanding of the iPhone DFU Mode, look into these questions for a clear overview of the process:

1. What is the difference between iPhone Recovery Mode and DFU Mode?

The iPhone Recovery Mode requires iBoot to restore the Apple device, whereas the DFU Mode bypasses the iBoot and processes against it. This makes the DFU mode more extensive and detailed than the Recovery Mode.

2. Does iPhone DFU delete everything?

Entering the iPhone DFU mode does not delete everything, but the system restoration procedures involved in the methodology delete everything from the iPhone. After using the DFU Mode to restore your iPhone, all data is erased.

3. How do I force my iPhone 11 into DFU Mode?

Only one dedicated way is available for entering the iPhone into the DFU Mode. If you cannot enter the DFU Mode, retry with the methods explained above in the article. Usually, problems involve the physical execution of the way, so you should carefully look into the process.

The Conclusion

This article has clearly explained the iPhone DFU Mode and provided insight into how one can enter the mode. With the details presented for every model, the reader has been made aware of the things they need to keep in mind when managing the DFU Mode.