Computer Tips From A Computer Guy

How to reset or restore your iPhone and iPod

Posted: 01 Aug 2009 03:24 AM PDT

If you're one of the few that have jailbroken their iPhones or iPods and now want to go back to the original legal version of the Apple OS, then you can perform what is called a Restore.

Restoring your iPhone or iPod will erase everything on the device, including all music, videos, and apps. Before you perform a restore, make sure you backup your iPhone or iPod.

How to restore iPhone or iPod

Step 1: First connect your iPod or iPhone to your computer until it appears in the Source or Device panel in iTunes.

Step 2: Select your iPod or iPhone and click on the Summary tab if you are already not there.

Step 3: Now click on the Restore button under the Version heading. You may be given the option to backup the software on the device before the restore procedure begins.

Step 4: Click the Restore button to begin the restore process. Note that iTunes will download the latest version of the firmware and install that onto the device. If you clicked Backup earlier, you will have the option to restore contacts, calendars, text messages, etc.

Step 5: Now just wait for the restore process to finish. You'll get a message stating the iPhone or iPod has been restore to factory settings when complete.

Step 6: Finally, on your iPhone, you will see a message that says "Connect to iTunes", so keep it connected to the computer until it goes away and the screen says "iPhone is activated".

Step 7: Finally, you can choose which backup to use to restore your iPhone or iPod Touch.

That's it! Your iPhone or iPod should now be back in working order and all your data intact! If you have any issues restore your iPhone or iPod, post a comment here. Enjoy! [via Apple]