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Last updated: July 24, 2026

How to use iTunes or Apple Configurator to restore iOS devices? 

If an iOS device loses connection during deprovisioning, it may fail to become unmanaged even after removal from the MDM server. In this case, admins can restore the device with Apple Configurator by connecting it to a Mac, right-clicking the device, and choosing Restore, or with iTunes by connecting the device and clicking Restore iPhone on the summary page. Either method wipes data and settings and reinstalls iOS.

Description

If a device loses connection while being deprovisioned, might fail to be unmanaged despite being removed from the MDM server. In such a case, the user can either use iTunes or Apple Configurator to restore the device. Restoring devices using iTunes or Apple Configurator ensures that not only the data and settings are wiped, it also re-downloads iOS into these devices. 

Restoring devices using Apple Configurator

Follow the steps given below to restore the device using Apple Configurator.

  1. Connect the device to a Mac machine which has Apple Configurator installed in it.
  2. Open Apple Configurator, and the connected device will be listed.
  3. Right click the device, and choose Restore.

Restoring devices using iTunes

Follow the steps given below to restore devices using iTunes.

  1. Connect the device to a system that has iTunes installed in it.
  2. Open iTunes and click on the mobile icon on the upper left corner.
  3. On the summary page, click on Restore iPhone. 

Frequently asked questions

Why would I need to restore an iOS device using iTunes or Apple Configurator?

If a device loses connection while being deprovisioned, it may fail to become unmanaged even after being removed from the MDM server. Restoring the device wipes its data and settings and reinstalls iOS, fully clearing it.

How do I restore a device using Apple Configurator?

Connect the device to a Mac with Apple Configurator installed, then right-click the listed device and choose Restore.

How do I restore a device using iTunes instead?

Connect the device to a system with iTunes installed, click the mobile icon in the upper-left corner, then click Restore iPhone on the summary page.

Does restoring the device remove all of its data?

Yes. Restoring with either iTunes or Apple Configurator wipes the device's data and settings and re-downloads iOS onto the device.