How Do I Completely Erase My iPhone?

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

Erasing an iPhone is a process that wipes all data and settings from the device, returning it to its factory default state. Before proceeding, make sure you've backed up any important data, as this action is irreversible. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to erase an iPhone:

Note: Before you start, ensure you know your Apple ID and password as you'll need them for certain steps.

1. Backup Your Data (Optional but Highly Recommended):

If you want to keep your data, create a backup of your iPhone. You can do this via iCloud or iTunes/Finder on your computer.

iCloud Backup:

Go to "Settings" on your iPhone.

Tap your name at the top.

Select "iCloud" and then "iCloud Backup."

Tap "Back Up Now."

iTunes/Finder Backup:

Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable.

Open iTunes (on macOS Catalina and later, open Finder).

Select your device when it appears in iTunes or Finder.

Click "Back Up Now."

2. Sign Out of iCloud:

Go to "Settings" on your iPhone.

Tap your name at the top.

Scroll down and tap "Sign Out." Enter your Apple ID password when prompted.

Select "Sign Out" again to confirm and turn off "Find My iPhone."

3. Turn Off Activation Lock (iOS 7 or later):

If your device is running iOS 7 or later, you need to disable Activation Lock. This feature is designed to prevent someone from using your device without your Apple ID and password.

Go to "Settings" > "iCloud."

Scroll down and tap "Find My iPhone."

Turn off "Find My iPhone."

4. Erase Your iPhone:

Go to "Settings" on your iPhone.

Scroll down and tap "General."

Scroll to the bottom and select "Reset."

Choose "Erase All Content and Settings."

If prompted, enter your device passcode.

5. Confirm the Erase:

A warning message will appear, informing you that all media, data, and settings will be erased. If you've backed up your data and are sure you want to proceed, tap "Erase iPhone."

6. Wait for the Process to Complete:

Your iPhone will begin the erasing process, which can take a few minutes to complete. The device will restart and display the initial setup screen once it's finished.

7. Set Up Your iPhone as New or Restore from Backup:

You can set up your iPhone as new by following the on-screen prompts, or you can choose to restore it from the backup you created in Step 1.

To set up as new, follow the setup steps without selecting a backup option.

To restore from a backup, choose "Restore from iCloud Backup" or "Restore from iTunes/Finder Backup" during the setup process and select the most recent backup.

8. Sign in with Your Apple ID:

After setting up your iPhone, sign in with your Apple ID and password to re-enable iCloud services.

That's it! Your iPhone is now erased and ready for a fresh start. Remember to reinstall any apps and reconfigure settings as needed.

Contact Support.Com

If you are still having trouble, refer to the Step-By-Step Guide below, or Contact Support.Com for Personalized Assistance.

1. Introduction: iOS: Complete Erasure

If you wish to completely erase all the data stored on your iOS device you have to reset it to factory defaults. This means returning the device's contents and settings to the state they were in out of the box.

This guide will assist with completely erasing your iOS device.

2. Go To: How to Factory Reset Your iPhone

Show Me HowClicking this button will open a new guide that will provide you with steps to resolve your issue.