How to factory reset an iPhone without a password: 2 methods for resetting your iPhone (2023 Update)

There are a number of reasons why you might want to factory reset your iPhone. With factory reset, we refer to bringing your iPhone back to its original factory settings. In other words, factory resetting means wiping your iPhone completely, leaving nothing behind.

One reason why you might want to do a factory reset on your iPhone is if you are looking to sell your phone and want to erase all data and personal information. Doing a factory reset might be necessary also in cases where your phone freezes and there is no other way to restore it.

Preparation: Back-Up Your Data

Before you begin the factory reset process, it’s crucial to back up your data. This ensures you don’t lose any important information. You can back up your iPhone using iCloud or iTunes. 

To back up using iCloud:

1. Connect your iPhone to a Wi-Fi network.
2. Go to “Settings” and tap your name at the top.
3. Tap “iCloud” and then “iCloud Backup.”
4. Turn on the “iCloud Backup” toggle switch.
5. Tap “Back Up Now” to initiate the backup process. 

To back up using iTunes:

1. Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable.
2. Launch iTunes on your computer.
3. Click the device icon that appears in the top-left corner of the iTunes window.
4. In the “Summary” tab, click “Back Up Now” under the “Manually Back Up and Restore” section.

Visit our comprehensive guide on how to backup your iPhone for more information and tips.

Optional: Disable Find My iPhone

Before resetting your iPhone, you need to disable the Find My iPhone feature. This ensures a smooth factory reset process. 

To disable Find My iPhone:

1. Open the “Settings” app on your iPhone.
2. Tap your name at the top and then “Find My.”
3. Toggle off the “Find My iPhone” switch.
4. Enter your Apple ID password when prompted.

Not sure about changing this setting? Refer to our guide on how to disable and re-enable the Find My function on your iPhone for details.

Before proceeding further, make sure that you have a backup of your iPhone as you will lose everything on your phone once the factory reset is done. You can read how to do this on our comprehensive guide to backing up your iPhone

Method 1: How to factory reset iPhone with iTunes

One way to factory reset your iPhone in case you have forgotten your password is by using Apple’s iTunes on a computer. One requirement for this step is that you have synced your iPhone to iTunes once before. Here’s how to do this.

1. Connect your iPhone to a computer with a USB cable and open iTunes.
2. On the left side of the screen, navigate to “Summary”.
3. Next, press a button titled “Restore iPhone…”.
4. A prompt will appear, asking you to confirm the factory reset. Press “Restore” if you are certain that you want to factory reset your iPhone.
5. Wait for the reset to finish.
6. Done!

Now you can use your earlier backup to return all of your data, apps and files to your iPhone.

Method 2: How to factory reset iPhone with iCloud

In case you have enabled Find My iPhone, you can also use iCloud to factory reset your iPhone, even if you have forgotten the phone’s password. This method also requires that you remember your Apple ID and password.

1. First, if you don’t want to lose everything on your phone, make sure that you have a backup of your phone available.
2. Open a web browser and go to icloud.com. Log in to iCloud with your Apple ID and password.
3. Navigate to “Find iPhone” and select the iPhone you want to reset.
4. Press “Erase iPhone” (under a trashcan-icon).
5. Done!

Next, use your earlier backup to return all of your data, apps and files to your iPhone.

After the factory reset, your iPhone will restart and display the “Hello” screen. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your device as new or restore it from a backup.

To set up your iPhone:

1. Select your language and region.
2. Connect to a Wi-Fi network.
3. Sign in with your Apple ID or create a new one.
4. Choose whether to enable or disable features like Siri and Screen Time.
5. Set up Face ID or Touch ID for added security.
6. Decide whether to restore from an iCloud or iTunes backup or set up as new.
7. Agree to the terms and conditions and complete the setup process.
   

By following these steps, you can easily factory reset your iPhone and ensure it is ready for a fresh start or a new owner. Remember to back up your data before performing a factory reset to avoid any data loss.

Summary: How to factory reset iPhone without password

You should be able to factory reset your iPhone with these two methods. Always make sure that you have a backup of your phone, just in case you run into a situation where wiping clean your iPhone is the only option. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Doing a Factory Reset on Your iPhone

Q: Will factory resetting my iPhone delete all my data?

A: Yes, performing a factory reset will erase all the data on your iPhone, including apps, settings, and personal files. Make sure to back up your data before proceeding.

Q: Can I factory reset my iPhone without a computer?

A: Yes, you can factory reset your iPhone without a computer. Simply go to the “Settings” app on your iPhone, tap “General,” scroll down to “Reset,” and select “Erase All Content and Settings.”

Q: How long does it take to factory reset an iPhone?

A: The time it takes to factory reset an iPhone can vary depending on the model and the amount of data on the device. On average, the process can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour.

Q: Will factory resetting remove the iOS version on my iPhone?

A: No, factory resetting your iPhone will not remove the iOS version. It will only erase your data and settings, allowing you to start fresh or prepare the device for sale.

Q: Can I cancel a factory reset once it has started?

A: No, once you initiate a factory reset on your iPhone, it cannot be canceled. Make sure you have backed up your data and are ready to proceed before starting the process.

Q: Will factory resetting my iPhone remove my Apple ID?

A: No, factory resetting your iPhone will not remove your Apple ID. However, it is important to disable the Find My iPhone feature and sign out of iCloud before performing a factory reset.