• Firmware for ipad via itunes. How to change the iOS version yourself and reflash the iPad

    Every owner of an iOS device, whether a novice user or a geek, should know what an iPhone restoration is and how it differs from an update. Moreover, all this is quite simple, to say the least - elementary.

    For those who are not “in the know”, as part of today’s instructions we will get acquainted with what flashing an iPhone is, what options and methods of flashing there are, what iOS recovery-Device differs from updating and how to reflash iPhone.

    Why do we say that skills are re iPhone firmware or should every device owner have an iPad? It is not appropriate for the owner of such an expensive and exclusive device to run to the service center every time there are difficulties in the operation of the iOS device at the software level or when Apple presents new version mobile operating system iOS. Moreover, the process itself takes no more than 10 minutes and, in most cases, requires minimal effort from the user.

    We will consider the subject of today's instructions at iPhone example, it will be easier for both us and you, dear readers.

    What is iPhone firmware?

    If we talk about the firmware of an iOS device as a software component, the iPhone firmware is its software or operating system. At Apple, the software for the iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad is called iOS for short, which means iPhone Operation System.

    If we talk about flashing an iOS device as a process, flashing an iPhone is a process of restoring or updating software devices. The most commonly used term is “flashing”.

    iPhone flashing options

    There are 2 processes involved in flashing an iOS device:

    • recovery;
    • update.

    At their core, the processes are identical: in the first and in the second case, as a result of flashing the iPhone, new iOS. Moreover, the concept “new” in the case iPhone recovery refers not to the version of the operating system, but to its state, in other words, “clean”.

    iPhone flashing methods

    You can reflash your iPhone in 2 ways, one of them is universal, i.e. used for both recovery and update, the second is only for update:

    1. iPhone firmware via iTunes;

    In the first case, the software is downloaded to the computer and, using the iTunes media combiner, it is downloaded directly to the iOS device. Valid for iOS 4.3.5 inclusive. For iOS 5 and higher, the second method is possible, which involves updating iOS directly from the device via the Internet. wireless network(Wi-Fi).

    What is the difference between restoring an iPhone and updating it?

    As we have already said, restoring or updating an iPhone refers specifically to the software component of the device.

    Restoring an iPhone is the process of restoring the device to its original settings. When restoring, all content (photos, videos, music) and personal data (phone book, calendar information) will be deleted from the iPhone, and the device settings will be reset to factory settings.

    In a nutshell, restoring an iPhone means resetting the device to its factory state and installing a “clean” iOS version of the latest version.

    Updating an iPhone refers to the process of moving from more old version iOS to a newer one. As a result of the update, all content, personal data and settings will remain intact and iOS will be updated to the new version.

    As you can see, the fundamental difference between restoring and updating an iPhone is only that as a result of the update, content and personal data are not deleted from the Phone.

    The result is:

    Restoring iPhone = Delete Content + Factory Reset + iOS Update

    As you know, the iPhone, like any other iOS device, can be in several modes provided by the manufacturer: normal mode, ( Recovery Mode) and (DFU Mode).

    It is possible to restore or update an iPhone in the following modes:

    • in normal mode;
    • in Recovery Mode;
    • in DFU mode.

    How to restore iPhone via iTunes?

    In order to restore an iPhone via iTunes we will need:

    • last iTunes version(preferably). At the time of writing, iTunes 11.1.5.5 is current. ;

    iTunes window saying no update required

    • pre-downloaded file with the version that is in present moment installed on iPhone (optional).

    Warning in iTunes when flashing iOS

    So, let's assume you have the latest version of iTunes installed on your computer and you have downloaded the firmware file for your iPhone model to hard drive.

    1 If the “ ” function is enabled on your iPhone, disable it in the device settings;

    iTunes warning to disable find iPhone

    2 Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable.
    If not set in iTunes settings automatic start programs when connecting an iOS device, launch iTunes;

    Selecting a device in iTunes

    3 Go to the device synchronization settings page with iTunes by clicking on the button with the name of the device type in the right top corner next to the " iTunes Store»;

    Device Information in iTunes

    4 While holding down the " Shift"On the keyboard in the pressed position, click on the button " Restore» (for Mac you need to press the button Alt+Restore). A window for selecting the firmware file will appear with local disk;


    5 Select the previously downloaded firmware file with the extension “. ipsw" and click on the button Open". Confirm the request to restore your iPhone. iTunes initiates the recovery process. No further action is required from you, iTunes will automatically delete all content and download the “fresh” firmware to internal memory iPhone. In this case, the device will be transferred to and the device will be restored to its factory state.

    Confirming the start of the firmware process in iTunes

    iPhone is being flashed

    Important to know

    The iPhone recovery process can be completely entrusted to iTunes, without the need to download the firmware file to your hard drive, however, after such recovery, if a more recent version of iOS is available in iTunes, it will be installed on the iPhone. In fact, content will be deleted, settings will be reset, and the iPhone will be updated to the new iOS.

    How to restore iPhone from Recovery Mode and DFU Mode?

    Procedure to restore iPhone from recovery mode ( Recovery Mode) or firmware update mode ( DFU-mode) is completely identical, with only one exception; before restoring, you must enter the iPhone into Recovery Mode or DFU Mode, respectively.

    2. Connect your device to your computer using a USB cable and launch iTunes. The program will detect the iPhone in recovery mode;

    iTunes detects iPhone in recovery mode

    3. While holding down the " Shift"on your keyboard, click on " Restore"(Mac users should press " Alt+Restore«);

    File selection window iOS firmware

    4. Open the previously downloaded firmware file with the extension “ .ipsw". Further iTunes work will take over, wait for the process to complete.

    Starting the iPhone firmware process in iTunes

    Is it possible to reset an iPhone without updating iOS?

    If we are talking about a “clean” iPhone restore via iTunes, the result will be the latest version of iOS installed on the device, i.e. in fact, the firmware will be updated, and this is not always necessary, especially for owners of jailbroken devices. Why? Because jailbreak is for current version iPhone firmware appears, as a rule, very late, and as a result, updating the iPhone will entail the loss of jailbreak.

    Restoring/Updating “locked” (locked under specific operator cellular communications) A jailbroken iPhone entails:

    • blocking a “locked” iPhone - you will not be able to connect the device to the cellular network of another operator;
    • loss of jailbreak.

    Fortunately, there is a way to remove all content from it without updating the iOS version and without losing the jailbreak. We have already talked about the SemiRestore utility, which allows you to clear the contents of an iOS device and reset its settings to factory settings without loss. Use it if you have a “locked” or “jaybroken” device.

    iPhone update

    We have already mentioned that there are 2 ways iOS updates-device to the latest iOS version:

    1. With connection to a computer via iTunes;
    2. Directly from your iOS device via Wi-Fi.

    The first method is practically no different from restoring an iPhone to the current firmware version. The second allows you to update your iPhone to the latest iOS without connecting to a computer via Wi-Fi.

    Updating iPhone from computer via iTunes

    1. Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable and launch iTunes. Go to the “Devices” menu and select your device;

    Selecting a device in iTunes

    2. On the page for setting up synchronization and settings for connecting the device to iTunes, left-click on “ Update". Confirm that your iPhone is updated to the latest version of iOS.


    3. You can save time and not wait for iOS to download to the iTunes service folder by first downloading the current iOS to your hard drive. Using the combination " Shift+Refresh» Initiate the firmware update from the hard drive.

    After the update, you will receive an iPhone with the latest iOS on board; all user content and settings will be saved.

    Update iPhone over Wi-Fi

    With the advent of iOS 5.0, developers integrated the ability to update firmware directly into the mobile operating system. Starting from iOS 5.0 and higher, the “Software Update” menu item is available in the settings of iOS devices. The update is only available when connected to the Internet via Wi-Fi. Bandwidth Internet connections from cellular networks do not allow updating iOS over a 2G or 3G connection.

    1. On iPhone, go to SettingsBasicSoftware update;

    Go to software update in iPhone settings

    2. Tap on " Download and install" and in the next window, accept the terms of use. Wait for the process to complete.

    This is what updating an iPhone via WiFi looks like

    Let us remind you once again that updating iOS does not entail the loss of user data and content and resetting settings, but it is dangerous for “jailbroken” and “locked” devices.

    Video on how to update to iOS 11 via WiFi on iPhone 6s

    Video instructions for restoring and updating iPhone

    As you can see, there is nothing complicated about iPhone flashing, which includes both updating and recovery. Learning basic skills in managing iOS devices is both useful and allows you to save on trips to service centers.

    If you have any difficulties or errors appear when flashing iTunes, write to us in the comments, we will try to help you!

    Hello everyone, dear iOS lovers gadgets. Today we will touch on the topic - like (4s, 5, 5s, 6) or iPad (2, 3, 4, Mini). To reflash means to update or reinstall the operating system on an iOS device. Update process mobile iOS The gadget may be needed if various problems arise with the iPhone (4s, 5, 5s, 6) or iPad (2, 3, 4, Mini). Reflashing can solve some problems if your gadget is unstable.

    This is done very simply, all the work happens in three stages:

    . At this stage, you will need to select and download the file with the required firmware version for your iPhone (4s, 5, 5s, 6) or iPad (2, 3, 4, Mini). In principle, you can: either install an updated version of the operating system or (but not too old). I want to say right away that I will return iOS old versions (older than iOS 7) will not work, because Apple has stopped signing and activating early versions iOS.
  • Setting up iTunes for work. You will reflash your device using iTunes. This program serves to control your iPhone (4s, 5, 5s, 6) or iPad (2, 3, 4, Mini) from a personal computer. The program is very easy to use and is distributed free of charge.
  • Flashing. Well, and, in fact, the flashing process itself. The program will do most of the work for you, all you have to do is sit and watch the process of flashing your gadget.
  • So, let's take a closer look at each of the above points..


    Downloading the firmware file

    First, let's move on to downloading the file with the firmware version you need. This is very easy to do, follow these steps::

    • Go to www.getios.com. In the “Your device” field, select the name of your device.
    • In the second step, you need to select the device model. To select, use the drop-down list called “The Model”.
    • In the third step, you need to select the version of the iOS operating system that you want to install on your mobile gadget iPhone (4s, 5, 5s, 6) or iPad (2, 3, 4, Mini).
    • Next, click the “Download” button. The file with the firmware will begin downloading; the file size, depending on the selected version of iOS, can take several gigabytes.

    Save the downloaded file with the operating system to your desktop or to the folder in which it is convenient for you to save.

    Setting up iTunes to work

    Before you proceed to flashing your device, you need to download, install and configure the iTunes program:

    • First of all, follow the link - apple.com/itunes/download and download the latest version of iTunes. Run the downloaded program file and install the program.
    • Connect your gadget to a personal computer with via USB cable. Launch iTunes.
    • In the side menu (if side menu not visible, you need to press the key combination CTRL+S) in the “Devices” field, select your gadget, previously connected to a personal computer.

    Before you start flashing your gadget, I recommend making a backup copy of your operating system settings. To do this you need to do a few simple steps:

    • Connect the gadget to your personal computer using a USB cable.
    • Launch iTunes (if the program does not start automatically after connecting) and in the side menu (if the side menu is not displayed, you simultaneously press the CTRL+S key combinations) select your iPhone (4s, 5, 5s, 6) or iPad (2, 3 , 4, Mini).
    • Go to the “Browse” tab, find the “Create a copy now” button and left-click on it.

    In the next step we will go to the lesson and try to reflash your gadget.

    Flashing

    Go to (4s, 5, 5s, 6) or iPad. To do this, follow these steps::

    • Hold down the SHIFT key (if you have Windows) or ALT key (if you have a Mac) and left-click on the “Restore iPad” button.
    • In order to reflash the device, in the window that opens, select the previously downloaded file with the firmware.

    After the above steps, the process of updating the software on your mobile will begin. iPhone gadget(4s, 5, 5s, 6) or iPad(2, 3, 4, Mini).

    After a certain amount of time, the process of flashing your iPhone or iPad (2, 3, 4, Mini) will be completed.
    That's all for today, I hope this short note helped you and you were able to reflash your mobile gadget iPad (2, 3, 4, Mini) or iPhone (4s, 5, 5s, 6) without any problems. If you have any problems flashing your gadget, you can describe your problem in the comments to this post. In order to be able to leave comments you need to log in. social network VKontakte.

    They don’t even pay special attention to modifying the operating system that is installed on their device. However, for others, it is vitally important to update iOS to the latest version in a timely manner, or try beta versions and return again to proven, reliable software options. It is for such people that the instructions are intended, telling how to reflash the iPad without harming the device itself.

    In order not to harm the iPad when flashing the firmware, you should follow the instructions

    Before reinstalling the operating system, you need to create a backup copy of the files stored on the iPad. Don't worry - this does not necessarily mean that you will have to restore all the information by downloading it from your computer - this situation is more of an unpleasant exception than the rule. However, sometimes all the data stored on the tablet is actually lost. Agree, it will not be very pleasant to lose your music collection, messages in personal correspondence and other valuable information. To prevent this from happening, just connect the iPad to your home computer, then open the iTunes program and in the corresponding menu subsection.

    When you just want to update iOS to the most current version, you should learn how to flash an iPad without iTunes. After opening the menu, go to settings and select the main section. You will be interested in the second line from the top, called “Software Updates”. If an updated one is available that is compatible with your iPad, there will be a checkmark in this line inviting you to go to this menu item. Will open new screen, in which you will be shown the number of the proposed version and a single button, clicking on which will launch. After making sure that your Internet connection is stable, click on the button and wait until all the basic necessary actions are completed automatically.

    Connect to the computer

    Despite the development of wireless technology, it is not yet available everywhere, so you should also know how to flash an iPad via iTunes. Open the program and connect the tablet to the computer via a standard USB cable. Be careful: the tablet must lie on a flat surface so that during data loading it does not turn off spontaneously, leading to serious errors. Go to the main section of iTunes and find the instruction current version iOS installed on your tablet. The next line will tell you which new version you can install. If there are no problems, click the “Update” button and wait for the installation process to complete.

    If the specified operating system number does not suit you, you can download the specific version yourself. Take a good look at back cover iPad, find the digital model name and download iOS for such a tablet from the Internet using trusted sites or file-sharing systems. The iPad can be downloaded in ZIP format. If you had to deal with this, you must rename the file, giving it the “.ipsw” extension. With iTunes open, find the Update button again, but this time press and hold Shift key, if you use , or Alt for MAC-based operating systems. A dialog box will appear that will prompt you to find the firmware file yourself, and then determine its version and specify consent for installation. By the way, this option is suitable for installing beta versions of iOS.

    Using recovery mode

    It happens that the given tips on how to flash an iPad do not work. In 1-2% of cases, the program displays a message about a certain error and aborts the installation. It is necessary to use a more advanced OS installation method, which requires restoring the tablet using . First, you should fully understand how to activate this mode in order to carry out all the necessary procedures.

    So, turn off our iPad completely, place it next to the computer and press the “Home” button. After about 5-7 seconds, carefully connect USB cable, which will cause the iTunes logo to appear on the display, below which the plug and arrow will be located. This means that you have correctly entered iPad recovery mode, you can pay attention to the computer screen.

    When you launch iTunes, you will see a window with a warning sign, which will mention the iPad going to . Once you click OK, you will notice a Restore button. After clicking it, the latest available version of the operating system will be installed on the iPad. If you want to decide for yourself which iOS number you will use, press Shift button(or Alt for MAC) and feel free to click the mouse to open a dialog box.

    Video on how to reflash an iPhone or iPad:

    The updated firmware will reset the iPad to factory settings and deprive you of all the information that was on the tablet. This is where a backup copy, the creation of which was mentioned in the initial section of this article, will come in handy. After iOS installations you will get the opportunity to choose which version backup copy use. By the way, if you need to get a completely clean iPad, for example, before selling it on the secondary market, you can refuse data recovery and continue further work with factory settings.

    The most serious flashing mode

    The iPad manufacturer has also provided the ability complete shutdown software and installation in this mode of an updated modification of the operating system. This method is called DFU (device firmware update). It must be used in the following cases:

    • When the error appears during installation in recovery mode.
    • When the device has been jailbroken, causing it to freeze during the update.
    • When you interrupted the OS installation by disconnecting from the Internet or computer and .

    The instructions for activating the mode are somewhat more complicated than the previous one. After connecting the device to the computer, open iTunes, press long time iPad power button and select the “turn off” menu item that appears. To understand how to reflash an iPad, hold down the power and “Home” keys at the same time and count down 10 seconds. Then release the power button, but continue to hold the second button for about 15-20 seconds until the computer screen displays a message about connecting a new device. Don't be afraid of the empty black iPad screen- this is normal for DFU mode.


    The device screen must be blank while DFU mode is running.

    Further, all procedures will be completely similar to those described above when using standard mode iPad recovery. Similarly, select a file to restore the operating system or agree to install the latest available version iOS. The data is also not saved - you will have to use a backup a copy of the iPad created earlier.

    Safety when flashing

    Now that you've learned how to flash an iPad, don't hesitate to use the information you've learned. The manufacturer has provided enough effective protection tablets from accidental software failures and intentional damage. Almost any problem can be solved by restoring the device using the above. The only one real threat at flashing iPad– loss of personal data that can be previously saved in a backup copy.

    Of course, disconnect the USB cables, Wi-fi routers and other devices that are used to change the version of programs are not worth it - minor problems may arise. It will be much worse if you drop the iPad directly during the recovery process: if the USB cable socket is possibly damaged, it will definitely not be possible to complete the process before repairing the tablet. In addition, I would like to recommend that you first study information about the version of the operating system that you are planning, because some may make it very difficult to return to previous modifications.


    Simple or difficult?

    In fact, installation in the described recovery modes is practiced only by a few users who are very well versed in modern electronics, including tablets. Most people (about 90%) use updates through iTunes or directly by iPad connections To wireless communication. They are good because they do not require any unnecessary actions and allow you to simply follow the proposed procedures without allowing any deviations. But recovery mode or DFU makes it possible to bypass some restrictions and errors that are insurmountable for iTunes in its normal state.

    Reflashing Apple mobile devices is often considered something completely simple and intuitive. However, in our service center we often have to repair an iPhone or repair an iPad or iPod Touch after an unsuccessful attempt to reflash the device yourself. In this article we will teach you how to properly reflash an iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch.

    Firmware is usually called an operating system. iOS (iPhone Operation System), and flashing means reinstalling it and updating (restoring) the software. Almost all mobile device owners sooner or later face the need to reflash their device. This happens for various reasons:

    • for the purpose of updating the software. Each new version of iOS has its own additions and improvements, as well as bug fixes;
    • if your Apple device experiences software glitches (it freezes, slows down, or does not work correctly);
    • if the firmware has crashed (the system does not boot);
    • if you need to get something “clean” from the data previously stored on it, installed programs device, for example, you want to sell it.
    In all these cases, reflashing can help improve the operation of the gadget or return it to full functionality, of course, if you do it correctly.

    Reflash iPhone, reflash iPad or iPod Touch possible with using iTunes. iTunes is a program developed by Apple, which allows you to organize your media files, as well as download music and videos, applications from the official resource Apple iTunes Store and App Store. In addition, it allows you to synchronize data across iOS devices, conduct backup information and update the operating system. Next, you will learn how to use iTunes to flash your devices.


    So, you have made a decision, but you don’t know how to reflash your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch using iTunes. First of all, check whether the latest version of iTunes is installed on your computer (it can be downloaded from the official Apple website).



    Connect your device using a USB cable to a computer connected to the Internet. Your device will be recognized by iTunes. But then you will have to decide what exactly will be done: a simple system update or its restoration. When updating iOS will be replaced with the latest version existing on at the moment, and all settings, contacts, information will be saved. The update should only be carried out if your device is in perfect order and you have no complaints about its operation. Click the “Update” button, and in a few minutes your iPhone or iPad will have the latest firmware version.

    If you decide to reflash the device because it is not working correctly, use the “Restore” button. In this case, the device will be restored to factory settings and a new version of iOS will be installed. All information will be lost (then it can only be restored from a backup copy). If you are ready, click “Restore”, confirm your desire to do this and wait until the flashing process is completed. After completion, your device will reboot (you do not need to disconnect it from the computer yet). The iPhone will undergo preliminary activation and find the operator's network (this will take about another minute). Now, depending on your desire, you can set up your iPhone as new or restore information from a backup copy.


    What should you do if the device does not boot, freezes on the apple, or does not turn on at all? It can be prepared for flashing manually using Recovery Mode(recovery mode) or DFU Mode(emergency mode).

    To enter the gadget into Recovery Mode, turn it off, then hold down Home button, connect the USB cable and hold Home until the USB connector and the iTunes icon appear on the display. iTunes program will warn you that the device is in recovery mode. After this, you can flash the firmware using the “restore” button.

    If the device does not enter Recovery Mode, try restoring it using DFU mode. This is a special emergency mode in which the device operates without loading the operating system shell. Therefore, there is no image on the screen in DFU Mode, and there is no reaction to button presses. To reflash the device in DFU Mode, connect it to the computer via a USB connector, disconnect it, and simultaneously press the Power and Home buttons for 10 seconds. Then let go Power button and hold Home until a message appears on the computer screen indicating that the device is recognized in DFU mode (about 15 seconds). Restore as described above using the “Restore” button.

    There are situations when, when reinstalling software on your mobile devices Errors arise that you can’t figure out on your own. If such a situation occurs with your gadget, or if you still have questions, how to reflash iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch, You can entrust this task to specialists. At the authorized Apple service center "A-Service" they will promptly install the latest firmware version on your device and give it to you in fully functional condition.


    iPad users know that over time, built-in operating program becomes outdated and the system prompts you to install a new, improved version. Many useful applications And required functions you can install it on your iPad thanks to the updated firmware. You probably know that many products from the App Store contain information about the required firmware version with which they can work. Therefore, sooner or later you will be faced with the question of how to reflash iPad Mini or iPad?

    You may have heard that new firmware can be downloaded from an Apple server, while iOS is suitable for both iPad and MacOS. There are a lot of firmware versions and being able to understand them is a whole science. It is immediately clear that the higher the firmware numbers, the more modern it is. Many iPad users believe that the process of installing firmware is too complicated due to the variety of its types. However, this is far from the case.

    However, you should select the firmware specifically for your iPad model. Therefore, first check the model version of your tablet, and then install or update the latest firmware for it.

    It happens that after installing the latest version of the firmware, over time it turns out that the iPad firmware lags and works slowly, which means that the firmware is not suitable and it is better to return the old version. In order to install a new version of firmware, you do not need to reinvent the wheel, since this question is quite simple. In this case, you will need the Internet and iTunes, or you can just use the iPad itself.

    Firmware for iPad is operating iOS system, and flashing is the reinstallation of the system in order to restore it, update it, downgrade it, and solve system failures of the program. Be that as it may, users will agree with me that in terms of speed it is necessary to update the system at least once due to the fact that lags and freezes occur. Why is this happening?

    The fact is that science and technology do not stand still, but, as we know, are constantly developing. Therefore, new programs and applications are designed to be more advanced modern versions iOS firmware and, when downloading them, as well as using them, they do not harmonize correctly with the system available on the iPad. Therefore, the iPad itself periodically reminds us that a new version of the software has appeared and the device can be updated.

    Happening on iPad freezing and software failures may not please the user, so you will have to find out how to properly update the firmware and what is needed for this. Also, if you were downloading some program and suddenly a crash occurred, the system froze and you urgently need to flash the iPad, you are forced to restore the iPad and the firmware on it.

    In addition, the firmware can crash just like that due to a virus or other reasons. And when the iPad freezes, you will need to clear its contents and update it to factory settings, so to speak. And if you want to sell your iPad, you will probably think about how to quickly clear the device of your personal data. Therefore, you must understand the procedure for restoring and updating the firmware, and it is not difficult to do. To do this, you do not need to contact a service center.

    What do you need to properly reflash your iPad or install a new version of iOS? In fact, not so much. Firstly, you will need time, since you will first have to backup the data from the iPad, then clear the contents of the iPad, then install the firmware, and then restore the data to the iPad. Agree, it's not that fast.

    Secondly, if it takes a lot of time, then the iPad’s battery must be at least 70-80% charged, otherwise the iPad may freeze and will have to be restored. It’s even better if you’re flashing it, put the iPad on charge.

    Thirdly, depending on the method of updating or flashing the software on your iPad, you need an activated iCloud program function or iTunes installed on your computer, updated to the latest version.

    The question immediately arises: is there a backup copy of the iPad data, which is stored in iCloud or iTunes. Therefore, first make sure you have saved backups, and if not, back up from your tablet. “Which is better?” - you ask. This depends on the amount of information stored on your iPad. The fact is that the volume of iCloud cloud storage is small and amounts to only 5 Gigabytes.

    Of course, additional storage space can be purchased, but this is not suitable for everyone and many prefer the free route - transferring data to a computer. Therefore, if the amount of information from the iPad is quite large, it is better to prepare your computer and install the iTunes program from the official website iTunes.com. Since the computer and iPad will have to be synchronized, prepare a working and serviceable USB cable to connect the devices.

    The fourth thing you need to have for flashing is a high-speed Internet network. Why do you need a network with good speed? The fact is that if the Internet speed is low, the flashing process may take a while. for a long time, and during this time some kind of lag or network failure may occur, the iPad may be discharged, then problems will inevitably arise. Therefore, it is better to do such things at good speed - there are more guarantees.

    The last thing you need to reinstall the OS is to select a specific action to change the operating system: firmware update, iOS restore, firmware downgrade. Therefore, depending on the choice of action, you need to download the required version of iOS in advance. There are many sites for this, including official ones from Apple.

    In fact, if you have already synchronized your devices, you won’t need to make a backup copy, so updating the system can happen in just a few minutes, because the data (music, files, recordings) is saved.

    On the contrary, when restoring the firmware, data is deleted from the iPad, so be sure to create a backup copy if it is missing. If you had to resort to downgrading the firmware version, then it is absolutely necessary to save the data: duplicate a copy on iTunes, because the iPad can easily freeze.

    When to update software and when to restore

    You should distinguish the iOS update process from the recovery process. Since these modes are not at all identical and have different consequences. For example, if you update the software, then all the data contained on the iPad, including photos, albums, documents, videos and contacts, will be saved, but when you restore the system, on the contrary, all this data will be deleted permanently, unless you make a backup in advance copies of this data.

    You should also remember that if you have a jailbreak program installed on your iPad, and there is a Cydia icon on the screen, then you cannot use the update function on the iPad, as this will cause a device error, which will result in the mode freezing and you will have to seriously “treat” the device. If you have Cydia installed update exclusively through iTunes on your PC.

    Backing up your data

    Before you install new system, backup your data to your iPad. Since in case incorrect installation firmware, you save a copy of the data that you can restore to your iPad. After all, these are photographs, correspondence, videos, documents and other content that is important to you. If the data volume is up to 5 Gigabytes, you can save a copy in cloud storage iCloud data.

    If the backup volume is too large, then you need to connect your iPad to your PC via a USB cable and open iTunes on your computer. Directly in the program you need to select the “Create a backup copy from iPad” command and wait for the data transfer process to complete. Upon completion, you need to update the firmware, for which click on the “Update iOS” command and the program will automatically select the required version OS, but you have the right to manually install the type of firmware.

    In general, as soon as you connect your iPad to your computer, the iTuns program will launch itself and prompt you to make a backup copy and also update the system with software. required version. That's why this process quite logical and understandable.

    How to back up your new iPad

    If you want to restore to new ipad all the data is from the old device, then this can be done using iCloud program. To do this, launch your iPad by clicking on the “Home” button. In the menu, select the “Applications and Data” section and run the “Restore” command from the “iCloud Backup” section. Next, activate the program by selecting the desired backup copy of data from your old device.

    After all the data from the iCloud backup is restored, the iPad will copy all your files saved in the backup and reboot automatically. After this, the tablet will begin to download content in the form of videos, audio files, text apps and other material. The content you previously purchased will be automatically downloaded from the App Store or iTunes Store.

    If some content that you have previously purchased is not available in the store, it will not be downloaded automatically. To restore previously purchased content, you need to know and remember the password for your account, for example, in the App Store or iTunes Store . When the content is loading, there will be a special icon on the screen.

    To check if everything has loaded, open the Settings menu, where select iCloud storage and launch "Storage". In general, it would be convenient to subscribe to iTunes Match in order to be able to download your albums from iCloud in the future after the restoration has occurred.

    How to choose the right firmware version

    It’s easy to find out the version of the iPad firmware you need, and this is done in different ways: both through a computer and without it. If you go the first route, then for this you will need a computer with iTunes, and it doesn’t matter whether it’s Windows or Mac, as well as a working Internet. You will need to connect the two devices using a USB cable and run the latest version of iTunes on your PC. Next, the devices synchronize with each other and the program itself will offer you the appropriate firmware version for the connected iPad model after you click the “Browse” button.

    If you want to check the appropriate firmware version directly on the iPad, then to do this you need to make sure that there is a connected Internet network in WI-FI mode or 3G, 4G. Next, go to the “Settings” menu of the iPad, open the “General” section and select the “About this device” properties. In the "Version" section, you can get information about the installed iOS on your iPad. To update the version, just go to the “Basic settings” item and select the “Software update” command. Here the program itself will determine the required version for iPad.

    Software update

    The iPad itself tracks the appearance latest versions Software and a special reminder notifies you about the availability of new software versions. And then it’s up to you to decide whether to install the update or not. If you decide to update iOS, then go to the “Settings” menu on your iPad and open the “General” section. There, launch the “Software Update” option, and then activate the “Download and Install” command, after which the system update will start.

    Please note, since downloading software is an energy-consuming process, for this you need your iPad to be charged at least 30-40%, or better yet, put the tablet on charge while the firmware is installed. If the iPad dies while downloading the firmware, then the system software will fail, resulting in an error message appearing on the tablet screen and then you will have to reinstall the software again.

    You also need to take into account that you need to download the software only with a good Internet speed, since a slow download can lead to a delay in the process for a long time and the iPad may not run out of charge at all.

    Installing firmware via iCloud

    Not long ago, users of the iPad 2 and iPad Mini were faced with the fact that after installing the iOS 9.3 firmware, an error occurred when entering the Apple ID, and then, as a result, the iPad was blocked. If your device can be found through “My Devices” in the “Settings” menu, then you can go to iCloud.com and fix it. The update can be installed via iTunes or iCloud.

    To do this, you need to go to the “Settings” menu and select the “General” section, and then launch the “Software Update” option. Select the desired version of iOS and install it on your iPad, sequentially following the prompts on the screen.

    You can restore data stored on your iPad using backup copies saved in iCloud. To make sure that such copies are available, you need to go to the “Settings” menu on the iPad and select “Data Storage” on iCloud, where you activate the “Manage” function. In this section, look for the “Backups” option and check for the latest copies of data saved. If you have a copy of the data, you can later restore the data from the copy after installing the firmware.

    How to recover data from iCloud

    If you need to download a backup copy to your iPad, open the “Settings” menu and go to the “General” section. Then turn on the Reset option and enable the Erase Content and Settings feature. After the iPad is completely cleared of old content, including the removal of frozen commands or errors previous firmware, select the "Restore" button in the "Apps & Data" section under "iCloud Backup" and launch iCloud. Select the required backup copy from the list of firmware versions offered and perform a restore.

    How to Recover Data from an iTunes Backup

    If you have periodically saved your iPad data to iTunes on your computer, then you can always retrieve it from there to restore it to your iPad. To execute this procedure, you need to turn on the computer and launch iTunes, then connect the computer to the iPad via a USB cable and turn on the iPad. If you are prompted for a password, enter the login code into your tablet.

    Once iTunes detects your iPad, select one of the “Restore from a copy” actions in iTunes from the menu. Next, designate the last saved copy of the data and start the process by clicking the “Restore” button. After completing the process of downloading data to the iPad, enter the password for the encrypted copy. After the synchronization process between the two devices is complete, disconnect the iPad and check its contents.

    Security measures for OS firmware

    Many users are in a hurry and forget about the security measures that need to be taken into account before starting the OS reinstallation process. But it is precisely minor shortcomings that lead to the system not installing and the iPad freezing.

    The main security measures for downloading iOS are a working USB cable and good internet speed. But even this is not enough. Since a system failure, in principle, should not occur over trifles, make sure that no one touches the iPad while downloading the OS, especially do not use it, do not read applications or look at pictures along the way. If there is a SIM card installed on the iPad, then it is better to remove it for a while so that no one calls you and interferes with the process.

    Also, turn off all active features on your iPad and background applications: Skype, Viber, FaseTime and others. To do this, in the “Settings” menu, select the “General” section and turn the program sliders to the inactive position.

    If you ensure the safety of a backup copy of the data from the iPad on your computer in advance, then no matter what failures occur on the tablet later, it will always be possible to restore the data on the iPad. This way, neither photographs, nor documents or other files will be damaged.

    Before downgrading iOS or installing on iPad new firmware, make sure it is suitable for your version of iPad. If you doubt your choice, you can always consult online at hotline Apple.

    Never reinstall the OS if there is a suspicion that the cable connection socket is faulty or the iPad itself has operational deficiencies, apart from, of course, operating system deficiencies. For example, WI-FI does not work or the battery is faulty, or the camera does not work, or the display is broken.

    Also, do not forget about the health of the computer on which iTunes is installed, since if the PC program throws a lag, then the problems will only increase. Better turn it off virtual network, if it is not needed at the moment. Also, close everything open windows and remove debris. Check your PC for viruses.

    How to downgrade iOS firmware version

    Many people are interested in whether it is possible to change the firmware version downward. Typically, this question arises when the system update fails or crashes. Let's face it, this is not easy to do. Not every version of iPad allows you to do this. Next, we will describe the steps through which you can learn about the capabilities of your device and how exactly to downgrade the firmware. Please note that custom firmware will not suit you, you only need the original one.

    First of all, check if it is possible to downgrade the firmware on your iPad. How to do this? Firstly, older iPads easily tolerate downgrading the firmware, but new iPads, alas, the iOS system is not downgraded, there is a ban on hacking. More specifically, on iPad 2, iPad 3, iPad 4, iPad Mini, iPad Mini 2 and iPad Air The firmware cannot be downgraded due to the presence of digital signatures Apple and the A5+ chip. Lack of signed certificates is the reason for the inability to downgrade the OS. However, this problem does not affect firmware with iOS 8; it can just be downgraded to version 7.1.2.

    Secondly, check for saved SHSH certificates. The fact is that to downgrade the firmware, you need certificates saved by the system. If you hacked the device, the certificates were automatically uploaded to Cydia. If you open this application, you will find your saved SHSH certificates in the top tab. If the certificates are saved on your PC, you can find them in hidden folder“.shsh”. Thus, as you understand, you can return to the old firmware version if its certificate is preserved, otherwise it is useless.

    Let's consider the process of downgrading the firmware for iPads with iOS 8, of course, taking into account the fact that the SHSH certificate from old firmware 7.1.2 has been preserved. Unfortunately, special programs for hacking in in this case No. Therefore, your actions will be more experimental.

    First, back up your data because if the firmware downgrade process fails, at least restoring the data will not be difficult. Next, download the signed IPSW from iDownloadBlog.com ( correct file), which is suitable for version 7.1.2. Then connect your iPad to your computer and launch the latest version of iTunes on it.

    Directly on your iPad, open the Summary tab and download the IPSW file. While doing this, hold down the Shift key And Update command.Immediately write down the downloaded IPSW file and proceed to the process of downgrading the firmware. For this press Update again to start the process. If suddenly the launch does not happen for some reason, then you will have to abandon this idea, since Apple may have stopped the subscription this file, That's why this version Can't downgrade.



    If the downgrade process was started and completed successfully, congratulations, now you need to configure your iPad, which can be done by opening the Settings menu.

    How to flash an iPad in recovery mode

    Many people are wondering if it is possible to download new firmware when the iPad is in recovery mode. Yes, it is possible, but you need to follow the correct sequence of actions. First you need to download the latest version of iTunes to your computer, and then download the one you need to your PC. iPad version iOS firmware.

    After that, go to the Settings menu and go to the iCloud option to deactivate Find My iPad. Next, turn on the iPad and connect it to the computer, open iTunes and wait for the program to recognize the iPad. Then hold down the “Shift” key on your keyboard and simultaneously click the “Restore” button on the PC screen.

    If you have a Mac computer, then hold down the Alt button on the keyboard and “Restore” on the screen. A window will open in which you need to determine the type of firmware and click the “Open” button to begin the restoration work.

    How to restore an iPad using DFU mode

    To execute iPad recovery, you need to use latest version iTunes program, for which download it to your computer from an official source. In addition, you need to download required firmware operating system for your iPad. To do this, go to the iPad's Settings menu and open the iCloud option, where you will find the Find My iPad option to disable it. This is necessary so that after the firmware you do not have to enter your login and Apple password ID.

    If everything is ready, then connect the iPad to the computer via USB cord and enable DFU mode on the iPad, with the full name Device Firmware Update, in which iOS is loaded at a low level, transferring only technical information. This mode is usually used for jailbreaking, mainly on the iPad.

    But the main task of the mode is to restore the operating system, which has a protected password. In this mode, the iPad screen will be completely black and will not display anything. iTunes will be able to recognize the connected iPad, so a corresponding icon will be displayed at the top of the PC screen.