A lot of firmware operations on iDevices can be considered tough, but downgrading iOS is among the top three. It does not help if you really wish to avoid using iTunes or don’t want to lose any personal data. A lot of people face tough choices, as the window to revert firmware is a very short one. That is due to Apple stopping signing older versions for use on its devices.
Fortunately, a more straightforward solution exists in the form of a robust iOS system repair tool. This quick tutorial will introduce this program and explore why it is so favored among mobile users. Follow along to learn that you can safely backup data and downgrade firmware without a hitch.
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Part 1. Problems with Downgrading iOS via iTunes
The only official method Apple permits for reverting to an older firmware version is using iTunes/Finder as the medium. Hence, what seems like a really straightforward process can become something else due to the added complexity of iTunes. Before you choose to downgrade iOS, the following are some challenges that commonly arise during the operation:
1. Limited Availability of Signed iOS Versions
One major hurdle is that Apple stops signing older versions of iOS shortly after a new update is released. That means users attempt to initiate the process only to discover that the targeted firmware iteration is no longer supported. As a result, the downgrade fails or cannot even begin.
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2. A Major Risk of Complete Data Loss
Using iTunes to revert to an older system version means you will lose all of your phone data. In many cases, creating backups does not help either, as you cannot restore a backup from a newer iOS to an older one. Unfortunately, a lot of users do not realize this fact until it is too late to do anything.
3. iTunes Errors During the Process
Although still functional, iTunes has not received a major update in functions or interface in a long time. During a complex task like iOS downgrading, users often encounter cryptic issues, ranging from error 3194 and error 4013 to error 14. With little guidance about what went wrong, the process gets interrupted a lot.
4. No Option to Downgrade Without a Backup
As hinted before, iTunes is really strict about version compatibility when restoring a backup. If you have used the new version of iOS for your backup, the current old version you are downgrading to will not work with the more up-to-date one. That means you cannot recover your data unless you upgrade once more, which is nullifying the case.
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Image alt: no downgraded options officially
5. Difficulty for Users New to the Apple Ecosystem
Finally, a lot of steps in this operation with iTunes need to be done manually. They include locating and downloading the intended IPSW file, as well as placing the gadget into DFU or Recovery Mode. These instructions are not clear, and it is easy to mess up when a new user is entering the system. One mistake and you might end up wasting hours troubleshooting.
Part 2. How to Back Up Your iPhone Locally Before Downgrading?
Due to the high risks of data loss during the downgrade operation, you must secure your phone content. Although many people rely on iCloud, it is not recommended in this scenario. Apart from limited free space and slow speed, you will not be able to restore it after an iOS downgrade. So, you want a local backup whose contents you can access even if it cannot be restored.
That is where Wondershare Dr.Fone comes to offer a ray of hope. Opting for this tool lets you back up over 23+ types of content on your computer with ease. When your information is retained using a local and secure storage method, you will have nothing to lose if the downgrade fails. It also allows you to have full control of the backed-up material as compared to iTunes or iCloud.
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This makes backup a fast process, and the files are stored in a readable file format. That means you don’t need to go through another restore just to access something important later. Adhere to the following instructions to learn how to back up your iPhone to a PC to secure all your content before you begin to downgrade iOS:
Step 1. Access the My Backup Section to Select the Content
Get and run Wondershare Dr.Fone on your system and link the targeted iOS devices using a compatible USB cable. Following that, move to the “My Backup” section and choose the data categories you wish to backup.
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Step 2. Select Where to Store the Backup Data and Start the Process
Here, choose the desired location as the “Backup path” and hit the “Back Up Now” button to commence the backup operation. Once it is done, you can browse the newly backed-up contents via “View Backups.”
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Image alt: preview data with view backup
Part 3. Downgrade iOS Seamlessly with Dr.Fone – System Repair
With the backup done and everything else ready, the next step is to undertake the actual process of reverting the firmware version. As iTunes can be a really complex choice, you need a tool that minimizes the hassle of this operation. For that, Dr.Fone – System Repair (iOS) emerges as the best choice. Summarized below is why this iOS system repair tool is the best choice to downgrade iOS:
- Skip the Need for iTunes Altogether: You don’t have to deal with iTunes or manually search for firmware files. This tool handles everything internally and walks you through the process step by step.
- Keep Your Content Intact: Unlike iTunes, this method ensures your personal data stays secure during the downgrade. That pretty much lets you switch versions without the fear of losing anything important.
- Works with All Major iOS Versions: This iOS system repair tool can be used on any iDevice model, regardless of the current firmware. It supports phones with both older and the latest system versions for this operation.
- Downgrade with Just One Click: There is no need for complicated settings or technical knowledge when you opt for Dr.Fone to revert iOS. To complete the operation, simply link the phone, follow the provided prompts, and select the desired firmware version.
- Built with User Safety in Mind: Every part of the process is designed to protect your device and your data. For that, the tool fully avoids risky commands or jailbreaking to make sure everything stays secure throughout.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, downgrading iOS does not need to be a risky or complex process. You no longer need to use older means such as iTunes; you can now have an easier and more secure alternative, Wondershare Dr.Fone. Through it, you can downgrade to your favorite iOS version smoothly without worrying about losing data. For this process, the simplest and safest approach is to use Dr.Fone – System Repair (iOS).
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