One of the things that you may have to do in order to solve complex software issues or when you are giving away your phone, is to hard reset your iPhone. The same applies when your iPhone is getting sluggish, running slower than usual, or crashing often. Thus, if you are experiencing any of these issues, then you can proceed with the hard reset by following the steps below.
However, before you hard reset your iPhone, you need to prepare a few things to avoid data loss. You need to make sure that your iPhone is connected to a Wi-Fi network and that you have an iCloud or iTunes backup of your data. If you do not have a backup, you will lose all of your data when you hard reset your iPhone. Once you have backed up your data, you can proceed with the hard reset by following the steps below.
First, press and hold the Volume Up button and the Power button at the same time. Keep holding the buttons until you see the Apple logo. Once you see the Apple logo, release both buttons. Your iPhone will now restart. The hard reset process will take a few minutes, and once it is complete, your iPhone will be restored to its factory settings. You will then need to set up your iPhone as if it were a new device.
What is a Hard Reset and When to Perform It
A hard reset, also known as a factory reset or master reset, is a procedure that restores your iPhone 6s to its original factory settings. This process wipes all data, including apps, settings, and personal information, from your device and reinstalls the latest version of the iOS operating system.
Performing a hard reset is often necessary in situations where your iPhone 6s is experiencing severe software issues, such as:
- Persistent freezing or crashing
- Unresponsive screen or buttons
- Inability to update or install software
- Forgotten passcode
- Persistent battery drain or overheating
- Severe system errors or malware infections
Before performing a hard reset, it’s crucial to note the following precautions:
- Backup your data: All data stored on your iPhone 6s, including contacts, messages, photos, and apps, will be permanently erased during the hard reset process. Therefore, it’s essential to back up your data before proceeding.
- Ensure you have access to your Apple ID and password: You will need your Apple ID and password to reactivate your iPhone 6s after the hard reset.
- Disable Find My iPhone: If you have Find My iPhone enabled on your device, it must be disabled before performing a hard reset. To disable Find My iPhone, go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Find My > Find My iPhone and turn it off.
Safety Precautions Before Hard Resetting
A hard reset, also known as a factory reset, is an effective way to restore an iPhone 6s to its original factory settings, erasing all data and settings in the process. This can be a useful troubleshooting step to resolve software issues or prepare the device for sale or transfer. However, before performing a hard reset, it’s essential to take certain safety precautions to avoid losing important data.
1. Backup Your Data
The most crucial step is to create a backup of all your important data. This includes contacts, messages, photos, videos, and other data stored on your device. iCloud backup is the most convenient method, as it automatically backs up your data wirelessly. Alternatively, you can create a backup using iTunes by connecting your iPhone to your computer.
2. Remove Apple ID and iCloud Account
Resetting an iPhone linked to an Apple ID or iCloud account without signing out can result in the activation lock. This prevents unauthorized access to your device after the reset. To avoid this, here’s how to remove your Apple ID and iCloud account:
- Go to “Settings” > “Apple ID” on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and select “Sign Out.”
- Enter your Apple ID password when prompted.
- Tap “Turn Off” to disable Find My iPhone.
- Enter your Apple ID password again to confirm.
- Tap “Sign Out” to complete the process.
| Settings Section | Option | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Apple ID | Sign Out | Remove Apple ID and disable Find My iPhone |
Note: If you do not remember your Apple ID password, you will need to visit the Apple ID website to recover it before performing the hard reset.
3. Disable Find My iPhone
Find My iPhone, a feature designed to locate and protect your device, must be disabled before a hard reset. If this feature is not disabled, you may encounter activation issues after the reset.
- Go to “Settings” > “iCloud.”
- Scroll down and select “Find My iPhone.”
- Toggle the switch to turn off “Find My iPhone.”
- Enter your Apple ID password when prompted.
Easy Step-by-Step Hard Reset Instructions
Step 1: Back Up Your iPhone (Optional)
Before proceeding, it is highly recommended to back up your iPhone to prevent data loss during the hard reset process. This can be done wirelessly via iCloud or physically through iTunes. To back up to iCloud, connect your iPhone to Wi-Fi, go to Settings > Your Name > iCloud > iCloud Backup, and tap “Back Up Now.” For iTunes backup, connect your iPhone to a computer, launch iTunes, and click on the “Back Up Now” button.
Step 2: Force Restart
Next, force restart your iPhone 6s by simultaneously pressing and holding the Sleep/Wake button and the Volume Down button. Continue holding both buttons until the Apple logo appears on the screen. Once the iPhone restarts, the hard reset process will begin.
Step 3: Reset Process and Troubleshooting
The reset process typically takes a few minutes to complete. During this time, the iPhone may display the progress bar and the Apple logo multiple times.
| Troubleshooting Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| iPhone stuck on “Slide to Upgrade” screen | Force restart the iPhone again by following Step 2. |
| iPhone stuck in recovery mode | Connect the iPhone to a computer and restore it using iTunes. |
| iPhone still not responding | Contact Apple Support for further assistance. |
Once the reset is complete, the iPhone will restart and display the “Hello” screen. You will need to set up your iPhone as a new device or restore it from a backup.
Alternative Hard Reset Method via iTunes
If you are unable to enter Recovery Mode using the hardware buttons, you can perform a hard reset via iTunes. This method will erase all data from your iPhone 6s, so be sure to back up your device before proceeding.
Step 1: Connect Your iPhone to iTunes
Connect your iPhone 6s to your computer using a USB cable and launch iTunes.
Step 2: Enter Recovery Mode
While your iPhone is connected to iTunes, press and hold both the Sleep/Wake button and the Home button simultaneously. Continue holding both buttons for about 10 seconds until you see the Apple logo.
Step 3: Select Restore
Once your iPhone enters Recovery Mode, iTunes will detect it and display a message asking if you want to restore or update your device. Click the “Restore” button to erase your iPhone and reinstall the latest iOS software.
Step 4: Confirm Hard Reset
To confirm the hard reset, iTunes will ask you to enter your Apple ID and password. Enter the necessary credentials and click the “Restore” button again.
iTunes will download the latest iOS software and restore your iPhone to its factory settings. This process can take several minutes, so be patient and do not disconnect your iPhone during the process.
Step 5: Set Up Your iPhone
Once the hard reset is complete, your iPhone will restart and you will be prompted to set it up as a new device. You can choose to restore your data from a backup or set it up as a new iPhone.
Troubleshoot Common Hard Reset Issues
If the hard reset does not work
If the hard reset does not work, there may be another issue with your iPhone 6s. Try the following:
If your iPhone 6s is stuck in a boot loop
If your iPhone 6s is stuck in a boot loop, this means that it is repeatedly restarting itself. This can be caused by a software issue or a hardware issue.
If your iPhone 6s is overheating
If your iPhone 6s is overheating, this can be caused by a number of factors, such as running too many apps at the same time, using the camera for an extended period of time, or playing games. To fix this, try the following:
If your iPhone 6s is not responding
If your iPhone 6s is not responding, this can be caused by a number of factors, such as a software crash or a hardware issue. To fix this, try the following:
If you are having other problems
If you are having other problems with your iPhone 6s, you can try the following:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| My iPhone 6s is not charging | Try using a different charger or charging cable. |
| My iPhone 6s is not connecting to Wi-Fi | Try forgetting the Wi-Fi network and then reconnecting to it. |
| My iPhone 6s is not syncing with iTunes | Try using a different USB cable. |
Recover Lost Data After a Hard Reset
Unfortunately, performing a hard reset will erase all data on your iPhone 6s, including photos, videos, contacts, and apps. If you have not backed up your data prior to the hard reset, it will be lost. However, there are a few ways to recover lost data after a hard reset.
1. iCloud Backup:
If you have enabled iCloud backup, your data will be automatically backed up to iCloud. To restore your data from an iCloud backup, you will need to sign in to your iCloud account on your iPhone 6s after the hard reset. Your data will then be automatically restored.
2. iTunes Backup:
If you have backed up your iPhone 6s to iTunes, you can restore your data from the backup. To do this, connect your iPhone 6s to your computer and open iTunes. Then, click on the “Restore Backup” button and select the backup that you want to restore from.
3. Third-Party Data Recovery Software:
There are a number of third-party data recovery software programs available that can help you recover lost data after a hard reset. These programs can scan your iPhone 6s for deleted files and recover them. However, it is important to note that these programs are not always 100% effective, and they may not be able to recover all of your lost data.
Here is a table summarizing the pros and cons of each data recovery method:
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| iCloud Backup | Automatic, easy to use | Requires iCloud backup to be enabled |
| iTunes Backup | Reliable, free | Requires iTunes backup to be created |
| Third-Party Data Recovery Software | Can recover data from devices without backups | Not always 100% effective, can be expensive |
Factory Reset vs. Hard Reset: Key Differences
A factory reset and hard reset share many similarities, but there are some key differences between the two. Here’s a table comparing the two types of resets:
| Feature | Factory Reset | Hard Reset |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Erases all data and settings, restoring the device to its original factory state. | Restarts the device without erasing any data or settings. |
| Data Loss | Deletes all data, including apps, contacts, and photos. | Does not delete any data. |
| Settings | Resets all settings to their default values. | Does not change any settings. |
| When to Use | When you want to erase all data and start over, or when you’re experiencing software problems. | When your device is frozen or unresponsive, or when you want to clear out any minor software glitches. |
Steps to Perform a Hard Reset on iPhone 6s
To perform a hard reset on your iPhone 6s, follow these steps:
1. Press and hold the Sleep/Wake button and the Home button simultaneously.
2. Continue holding both buttons until the Apple logo appears on the screen.
3. Release both buttons and wait for your iPhone to restart.
Once your iPhone has restarted, it will be in its original factory state. You will need to set it up again as if it were a new device.
Note that a hard reset will not erase any data from your iPhone’s iCloud account. If you wish to completely erase all data from your device, you should perform a factory reset instead.
How to Avoid Data Loss During Hard Reset
Performing a hard reset on your iPhone 6s can erase all your data, so it’s crucial to take precautions to prevent data loss. Here are some steps to follow:
1. Back Up Your Data to iCloud
Go to Settings > iCloud > iCloud Backup and make sure the toggle is turned on. Tap “Back Up Now” to create a backup of your data to iCloud.
2. Back Up Your Data to a Computer
Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable. Open iTunes and select your device. Click on the “Back Up Now” button to create a backup on your computer.
3. Use a Third-Party Backup Tool
There are various third-party apps and software available that allow you to create backups of your iPhone data.
4. Store Important Data in the Cloud
Use cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or Microsoft OneDrive to store important files, photos, and videos.
5. Make Sure Your Data Is Synced
Check if your apps are syncing your data to the cloud. For example, make sure your notes are synced with iCloud or Google Drive.
6. Disable Find My iPhone
Go to Settings > iCloud > Find My iPhone and turn it off. This is necessary before you can reset your phone.
7. Erase All Content and Settings
Only perform this step after you have backed up your data. Go to Settings > General > Reset and choose “Erase All Content and Settings.” This will erase all your data and reset your iPhone to factory settings.
8. Restore Your Data
Once your iPhone is reset, you can restore your data from the backup you created. You can choose to restore from iCloud or a computer backup.
| Restoration Method | Steps |
|---|---|
| iCloud | Go to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. When prompted, choose “Restore from iCloud Backup.” Select the latest backup and enter your iCloud credentials. |
| Computer | Connect your iPhone to your computer and open iTunes. Click on the “Restore Backup” button and select the backup you want to restore. |
Reset Protection
Reset Protection is a security feature on iOS devices that helps prevent unauthorized access to your data. When Reset Protection is enabled, you’ll need to enter your Apple ID password before you can erase or restore your device.
To disable Reset Protection, follow these steps:
- Go to Settings > iCloud.
- Tap Find My iPhone.
- Turn off Find My iPhone.
iCloud Password Lock Bypass
If you’ve forgotten your iCloud password, you can use the iCloud Password Lock Bypass tool to regain access to your account. This tool will allow you to reset your password without having to erase your device.
To use the iCloud Password Lock Bypass tool, follow these steps:
- Go to the iCloud website.
- Click on “Forgot Apple ID or password?”.
- Enter your Apple ID.
- Click on “Continue”.
- Follow the instructions on the screen to reset your password.
Once you’ve reset your password, you’ll be able to sign in to your iCloud account and remove Reset Protection from your device.
9. Using a Third-Party Tool
If you’re unable to reset your iPhone 6s using the methods described above, you can try using a third-party tool. There are a number of different third-party tools available, but one of the most popular is iMyFone LockWiper. This tool can be used to bypass the lock screen, remove the iCloud lock, and reset your iPhone 6s to its factory settings.
To use iMyFone LockWiper, follow these steps:
- Download and install iMyFone LockWiper on your computer.
- Connect your iPhone 6s to your computer using a USB cable.
- Select the “Unlock Screen Passcode” option.
- Click on the “Start” button.
- Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the process.
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Reset Protection | Prevents unauthorized access to your data | Can be annoying if you forget your password |
| iCloud Password Lock Bypass | Allows you to reset your password without erasing your device | Requires an internet connection |
| Using a Third-Party Tool | Can bypass the lock screen, remove the iCloud lock, and reset your iPhone to its factory settings | May not be free |
What is a Hard Reset?
A hard reset, also known as a factory reset, restores your iPhone 6s to its original factory settings. This can be useful for troubleshooting issues or if you’re planning to sell your device.
When to Hard Reset Your iPhone 6s
You may want to hard reset your iPhone 6s if you’re experiencing any of the following issues:
- Freezing or crashing
- Slow performance
- Battery draining quickly
- Software updates failing to install
- Unable to connect to Wi-Fi or cellular networks
How to Hard Reset Your iPhone 6s
- Back up your iPhone using iCloud or iTunes.
- Turn off your iPhone.
- Press and hold the Volume Up button.
- While holding the Volume Up button, press and hold the Power button.
- Continue holding both buttons until the Apple logo appears on the screen.
- Release both buttons.
- Your iPhone will now enter recovery mode.
- Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable.
- Open iTunes on your computer.
- iTunes will detect your iPhone and give you the option to restore it. Click the Restore button.
Best Practices for Hard Resetting and Maintenance
1. Back Up Your Data
Before you perform a hard reset, it’s crucial to back up your important data, including contacts, photos, messages, and apps. This ensures that you don’t lose any valuable information during the reset process.
2. Charge Your iPhone
Make sure your iPhone has sufficient battery life before initiating a hard reset. The process can take several minutes, and if your device runs out of power during the reset, it could potentially brick your iPhone.
3. Use a Lightning Cable
When connecting your iPhone to your computer for recovery mode, always use an official Lightning cable. Third-party cables may not be compatible and could interfere with the reset process.
4. Restore to Factory Settings
During the hard reset, choose the option to restore your iPhone to factory settings. This will completely erase all data and settings from your device, restoring it to its original state.
5. Set Up Your iPhone
After the hard reset, you will need to set up your iPhone as a new device or restore it from a previous backup. Carefully follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup process.
6. Update Your Software
Once your iPhone is set up, check for any available software updates. Installing the latest iOS version can improve performance, fix bugs, and enhance security measures.
7. Optimize Device Performance
To maintain your iPhone’s performance after a hard reset, consider disabling unnecessary background apps, clearing cache data, and freeing up storage space. These measures can help prevent slowdowns and optimize the overall user experience.
8. Protect Your Data
Regularly back up your iPhone to protect your valuable data from potential data loss or theft. iCloud and iTunes offer convenient backup options that allow you to restore your data in case of emergencies.
9. Monitor Battery Health
Keep an eye on your iPhone’s battery health by checking the Battery Health section in Settings. Replacing a degraded battery can significantly improve performance and extend the lifespan of your device.
10. Common Issues and Troubleshooting
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If you encounter any issues during or after a hard reset, refer to the following table for potential causes and solutions:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| iPhone stuck in recovery mode | Try connecting to a different computer or using a different Lightning cable. If the issue persists, contact Apple Support. |
| Data recovery failed | The backup you’re trying to restore may be corrupted. Try creating a new backup and attempting the recovery process again. |
| iPhone not turning on | Check if your iPhone is properly charged. If the charging port is damaged, it may need to be repaired by a qualified technician. |
| Unknown error occurred | Restart your computer and iPhone, then try the hard reset process again. If the issue persists, contact Apple Support. |
How to Do a Hard Reset on iPhone 6s
A hard reset, also known as a factory reset, is a process that restores your iPhone 6s to its original factory settings. This can be useful if your iPhone is experiencing software problems, such as freezing, crashing, or not responding. It can also be useful if you want to sell or give away your iPhone and want to erase all of your personal data.
To perform a hard reset on your iPhone 6s, follow these steps:
- Back up your iPhone to iCloud or iTunes.
- Turn off your iPhone.
- Press and hold the Sleep/Wake button and the Volume Down button at the same time.
- Keep holding the buttons until you see the Apple logo appear on the screen.
- Release the buttons.
- Your iPhone will now start the reset process.
- Once the reset is complete, your iPhone will restart and you will be prompted to set it up as a new device.
People Also Ask About How To Do A Hard Reset On Iphone 6s
What is the difference between a hard reset and a soft reset?
A soft reset, also known as a restart, is a process that restarts your iPhone without erasing any data. A hard reset, on the other hand, erases all of your data and restores your iPhone to its original factory settings.
Why would I need to do a hard reset on my iPhone 6s?
You may need to do a hard reset on your iPhone 6s if it is experiencing software problems, such as freezing, crashing, or not responding. You may also want to do a hard reset if you want to sell or give away your iPhone and want to erase all of your personal data.
How can I prevent my iPhone 6s from needing a hard reset in the future?
There are a few things you can do to prevent your iPhone 6s from needing a hard reset in the future, such as:
- Keep your iPhone up to date with the latest software.
- Avoid downloading apps from untrusted sources.
- Be careful about what data you share with apps.
- Back up your iPhone regularly.
