How to install iOS IPSW firmware file using iTunes on Windows and Mac

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How to install iOS IPSW firmware file using iTunes on Windows and Mac

The majority of users upgrade the firmware on their iPhone or iPad devices over-the-air via their devices or by using iTunes or iTunes on Windows and Mac computers. However, advanced users would rather install iOS updates by using IPSW firmware files, which can be downloaded through either the Developer Console or iTunes (if you are familiar with how to do it).

If you are constantly switching between public and beta updates for the iPhone or iPad It’s recommended to save IPSW firmware files on your PC for faster and faster flashing iOS updates.

Installing manually iOS update using iTunes by using IPSW Firmware File

Time required Time needed: 10 minutes.

The process of installing the iOS update manually using iTunes might seem daunting initially, but it’s extremely easy. Follow the steps following to set up the iOS software update on the iOS device in just 10 minutes.


  1. Download the right iPhone IPSW Firmware file.

    Find the iOS firmware that is compatible with the iPhone and iPad version and download it on your computer. If you have a developer account with Apple, go to developer.apple.com/download, to get IPSW firmware for the latest iOS version.


  2. Start iTunes to your personal computer.

    Install and download iTunes to the Mac as well as Windows PC. In this article we’ll use an Windows 10 machine to install iOS firmware using iTunes.


  3. Make sure you connect your iPhone or iPad with your computer.

    Find your USB into Lightning cable included along with the iOS device and use the cable to link your iOS device with a computer.


  4. Let your computer access the files stored from your iOS device.

    If you see a “Trust This Computer” pop-up appears on the screen of your device then select “Trust”. There may be an “Do you wish to let this computer …” display” from iTunes and then select to continue to allow your computer to write or read documents to the iOS device.

    Plus, if you’re connecting the iPhone with iTunes to the very first time. You might see an “Welcome to Your New iPhone” screen. Select “Set up as new iPhone” and then click the “Continue” button.


  5. Hold SHIFT while pressing and select to update in iTunes.

    When your device is displayed in the iTunes screen, press & hold the shift key, then select on the “Check for Update” button within iTunes to choose IPSW firmware. IPSW firmware.

    + If you’re running Mac Press and hold the Option key, then click on the Update button within iTunes.


  6. Select the IPSW Firmware File

    Go to the directory where you have saved your IPSW firmware for the device, and choose it.


  7. Confirm iOS version update.

    There will be a message on your the PC that says “iTunes will upgrade the firmware on your iPhone with iOS (version )..” and hit”Update” to continue.” “Update” button to proceed. iTunes will begin the process of updating by first downloading from the Firmware Image file. You can track the progress by looking at the top bar on the iTunes screen.


  8. Input your Passcode.

    If you are asked to enter an access code, grab the iPhone then “Enter your Passcode” while connecting it to the PC.


  9. You’ll have to wait for iTunes to upgrade your iPhone.

    iTunes is now updating your iPhone. You can track the update by looking at the top bar of iTunes.


  10. Your iPhone will restart and begin installation.

    When the iTunes has completed the process the phone will restart and begin the installation. You’ll be able to see the Apple logo and the progress bar displayed on the screen of your phone.


  11. Update Complete

    After the installation is complete when it’s done, the iPhone will restart into the system and you’ll be presented with the “Update Complete” display on your phone.

That’s it. Take advantage of the latest application for the iOS device.

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