How to Fix iPhone Stuck in Recovery Mode (2026 Guide)

Is your iPhone stuck in Recovery Mode and won’t exit? Don’t worry — this is a common issue and can usually be fixed.

In this guide, you’ll learn the best methods to fix an iPhone stuck in Recovery Mode step by step.

⚠️ Why Is My iPhone Stuck in Recovery Mode?

Your iPhone may get stuck in Recovery Mode due to:

• Failed iOS update

• Interrupted restore process

• Software crash

• System corruption

• Attempted downgrade

👉 The device cannot complete the boot process.

🔧 Fix 1: Force Restart (Quick Solution)

Try this first — it works in many cases.

For iPhone 8 and later:

1. Press and release Volume Up

2. Press and release Volume Down

3. Press and hold the Power button

4. Release when the Apple logo appears

For iPhone 7 / 7 Plus:

• Hold Power + Volume Down until restart

For iPhone 6s / SE (1st gen):

• Hold Power + Home button

🔄 Fix 2: Use iTunes or Finder (Update Mode)

1. Connect your iPhone to your computer

2. Open iTunes (Windows) or Finder (Mac)

3. Select your device

4. Click Update (important: keeps your data)

5. Wait for the process to complete

👉 This can reinstall iOS without deleting data.

⚙️ Fix 3: Restore Using IPSW (Most Effective)

👉 If update fails, use IPSW restore.

Download firmware here:

• iPhone 17 Series – https://www.getipsw.org/device/iPhone18,5

• iPhone 16 Series – https://www.getipsw.org/device/iPhone17,1

• iPhone 15 Series – https://www.getipsw.org/device/iPhone15,4

• iPhone 14 Series – https://www.getipsw.org/device/iPhone14,2

• iPhone 13 Series – https://www.getipsw.org/device/iPhone14,5

• iPhone 12 Series – https://www.getipsw.org/device/iPhone13,2

• iPhone 11 Series – https://www.getipsw.org/device/iPhone12,1

• iPhone XS / XR – https://www.getipsw.org/device/iPhone11,8

• iPhone SE – https://www.getipsw.org/device/iPhone12,8

Steps:

1. Download the correct IPSW file

2. Connect your iPhone

3. Open iTunes or Finder

4. Hold Shift (Windows) or Option (Mac)

5. Click Restore iPhone

6. Select IPSW file

7. Wait for installation

🔥 Fix 4: Use DFU Mode (Advanced)

If Recovery Mode doesn’t work:

1. Enter DFU mode

2. Connect to computer

3. Restore using IPSW

👉 This solves deep system issues.

⚠️ Important Notes

• “Update” keeps your data

• “Restore” deletes everything

• Always backup before restoring

• Use official firmware only

🚫 What NOT to Do

❌ Do not unplug your device during restore
❌ Do not use fake tools
❌ Do not install wrong IPSW file

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I exit Recovery Mode without data loss?

Yes, using “Update” instead of “Restore”.

Why does my iPhone keep going back to Recovery Mode?

This usually indicates a deeper system issue.

Is Recovery Mode dangerous?

No, it is an official Apple recovery feature.

🧠 Final Thoughts

An iPhone stuck in Recovery Mode can be frustrating, but it is usually fixable.

Start with simple methods, then move to IPSW restore or DFU mode if needed.

Explore more guides on GetIPSW to fix, restore, and manage your iPhone easily.