If your iPhone is frozen, unresponsive, or shows a black screen, a force restart is the fastest way to get it back to a working state without erasing data. This guide walks through clear, model-specific steps for performing a force restart on every modern iPhone, explains what a force restart actually does, and shows what to try if a forced restart does not fix the problem. The instructions are up-to-date with official manufacturer guidance and practical troubleshooting techniques used by technicians and power users.
Force restarting differs from a normal restart because it bypasses the normal shutdown process and reinitializes hardware-level control to bring the device back online, making it effective when the screen or software is frozen. It does not erase user data or reset settings—it’s intended as a non-destructive troubleshooting step.
This article covers quick steps by model group (iPhone with Face ID, iPhone with Home button, older models), when to use Recovery or DFU mode, how to handle stuck Apple logos or boot loops, and best practices to reduce the chance of needing frequent force restarts.
Read carefully and follow the model-specific steps for your device. If a step behaves differently on your phone, follow the on-screen prompts exactly and reference the official support guidance linked in the resources section.
What a Force Restart Actually Does
A force restart forcibly cycles the device power at the hardware level. When iOS and the screen become unresponsive, a force restart cuts power and restarts the processor and system components without going through a standard shutdown sequence.
This action is helpful when the device is frozen, apps are unresponsive, or the touchscreen does not register input. It does not erase data, alter settings, or return the device to factory defaults—those actions require different procedures like Erase All Content and Settings or a full restore via a computer.
Because a force restart is a low-level reset, it should be used as an early troubleshooting step. If problems persist after a forced restart, backup and further diagnostics may be necessary to determine whether software corruption or hardware failure is the root cause.
Safety and Preparations
Before attempting advanced recovery steps beyond a force restart, make sure you:
- Have recent backups of your device data in iCloud or via Finder/iTunes. Regular backups protect your photos, messages, and settings in case repairs require a factory restore.
- Are aware that force restart does not erase content, but Recovery Mode and DFU Mode used for restores will remove data unless restored from a backup.
- Keep the device connected to a reliable power source if the battery is critically low—interruptions during recovery or restore can lead to additional issues.
- Use original or certified cables for any computer-based restores to avoid connectivity problems during recovery procedures.
These preparations minimize the risk of data loss and simplify escalation to Apple Support or an authorized service provider if needed.
Model-Specific Force Restart Steps
iPhone models with Face ID (iPhone X, XR, XS, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 and later)
These models use the same three-step sequence to force restart. Follow this order precisely and avoid long pauses between steps.
1. Press and quickly release the Volume Up button.
2. Press and quickly release the Volume Down button.
3. Press and hold the Side (Power) button until the Apple logo appears, then release the button. This can take longer than 10 seconds in some cases—hold until the logo appears.
iPhone 8, iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation) and similar models
These models share the Face ID-style hardware steps introduced with the iPhone 8 architecture. The sequence is identical to Face ID devices:
1. Press and quickly release Volume Up.
2. Press and quickly release Volume Down.
3. Press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears, then release. The device should boot normally after this hardware reset.
iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus
For iPhone 7 models the force restart uses button combinations that differ from later models because of the change in the Home button hardware:
1. Press and hold both the Volume Down button and the Side (or Top) button simultaneously.
2. Keep holding until the Apple logo appears, then release both buttons. The device should restart without data loss.
iPhone 6s, SE (1st generation) and earlier with physical Home button
Older iPhones require holding the Home button and the power button together:
1. Press and hold the Home button and the Top (or Side) button simultaneously.
2. Continue holding until the Apple logo appears, then release. This sequence performs a hardware-level reset on legacy models.
What to Expect Immediately After a Force Restart
After a successful force restart, the device should show the Apple logo and proceed to the lock screen or the passcode entry screen. If an app caused the freeze, reopening the app may reveal the original issue, and you may need to update, reinstall, or force-quit that app.
If the device repeatedly enters a frozen state or boots into a continuous loop, further steps (Recovery Mode, DFU Mode, or service) are necessary. We cover those options next.
When a Force Restart Does Not Fix the Problem
Recovery Mode
Use Recovery Mode when a force restart doesn’t allow the device to boot normally and the device needs to be restored or updated via a computer. Recovery Mode presents options to Update (try to reinstall iOS without erasing data) or Restore (erases the device and reinstalls iOS).
To enter Recovery Mode, connect the iPhone to a Mac or PC with a cable, open Finder (macOS Catalina and later) or iTunes (older macOS/Windows), and follow model-specific button sequences to trigger Recovery Mode. The computer will detect the device in Recovery Mode and present update/restore choices. Always try Update before Restore to preserve data if possible.
DFU Mode (Device Firmware Update)
DFU Mode is the lowest-level restore option and should be used only if Recovery Mode cannot restore the device or if instructed by a technician. DFU bypasses the bootloader and reloads firmware and iOS. The procedure is more technical and varies by model; it can result in data loss if no backup exists.
Because DFU is advanced and riskier, follow official steps or technician guidance carefully and ensure a recent backup exists before proceeding. If unsure, contact Apple Support or an authorized provider.
Troubleshooting: Common Causes and Fixes
When an iPhone requires frequent force restarts, the underlying causes usually fall into several categories. Below is a detailed list of common causes along with practical fixes.
- Software bugs or recent updates: An incomplete or buggy iOS update can cause instability. Fixes include verifying iOS is up to date, reinstalling the update via Recovery Mode, or restoring the device after backing up data.
- Problematic third-party apps: Specific apps can cause freezes if they are incompatible or corrupted. Identify and reinstall or remove apps showing repeated crashes and check for app updates from the App Store.
- Low storage or resource exhaustion: Devices low on storage may behave unpredictably. Free up space by removing unused apps, large attachments, or offloading content to iCloud, then monitor performance.
- Hardware faults: Damaged buttons, faulty batteries, or internal component failures can produce symptoms similar to software freezes. If hardware is suspected, seek diagnostics at an Apple Store or authorized repair center.
- Conflicting settings or profiles: Configuration profiles, VPN apps, or enterprise settings may interfere with normal operation. Remove unknown profiles in Settings and reboot normally to see if stability improves.
Step-by-Step Checklist Before Seeking Repair
Before taking the device to a repair shop, follow this checklist to rule out simple fixes and to prepare for diagnostics:
- Attempt a force restart following the exact model-specific steps in this guide.
- Try to update iOS via Settings or via a computer using Recovery Mode (choose Update first).
- Back up the device to iCloud or a computer to preserve data before any restore or repair.
- Disconnect or remove recently installed accessories and cables; try different certified cables and chargers for intermittent power issues.
- Document error messages, screenshots (if possible), and the sequence of events so technicians can reproduce the issue during diagnosis.
Pro Tips
These expert tips reduce the likelihood of recurrent freezes and improve the success rate of troubleshooting steps.
- Keep iOS and apps updated: Regular updates include bug fixes and performance improvements. Enable automatic updates where possible to minimize exposure to known issues.
- Use original or MFi-certified cables: Non-certified cables can cause erratic charging behavior that sometimes looks like device freezes. A stable power connection can prevent startup and charging problems.
- Make frequent backups: Regular iCloud or local backups eliminate data loss risk when advanced restores are required. Backups are the fastest way to recover if a restore becomes necessary.
- Monitor battery health: A failing battery can cause unexpected shutdowns and instability. Check Settings > Battery > Battery Health, and replace the battery through Apple or an authorized provider if capacity is degraded.
- Document symptoms precisely: When contacting support, note exact behaviors, any visible error messages, and what triggered the freeze—this speeds diagnosis and reduces back-and-forth troubleshooting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will a force restart delete my photos or messages?
No. A force restart does not erase user data. It simply restarts the device at a hardware level. If you are forced to use Recovery Mode or DFU Mode and must restore the device, that process can erase data unless you have a backup.
How long should I hold the Side button when forcing a restart?
For Face ID and modern models, hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears—this can take up to 20–30 seconds in some rare cases. Do not release if a “slide to power off” prompt appears; keep holding until the logo appears.
Is forcing a restart harmful to the device?
No—occasional force restarts are safe and are part of standard troubleshooting. However, frequent or repeated force restarts may indicate a deeper software or hardware issue that requires repair. If your device repeatedly needs forced restarts, back up your data and consult Apple Support.
What if the buttons are physically damaged and I can’t perform the sequence?
If buttons are broken, you may need professional repair. In some cases, connecting to a computer and using Recovery Mode or DFU Mode can allow software-based restores, but hardware repair will ultimately be necessary to restore full function.
Can I force restart my iPad the same way?
Many iPad models share similar sequences but check Apple’s support guidance for iPad-specific instructions because button layouts and models vary. Use the official support article for precise steps.
Conclusion
Force restarting an iPhone is a safe, non-destructive first step when a device freezes or becomes unresponsive. Follow the precise, model-specific sequence described earlier—quick press Volume Up, quick press Volume Down, then press and hold the Side button for Face ID and modern devices, or the equivalent combinations for older models. If the forced restart does not resolve the issue, progress to Recovery Mode to attempt an update, and use DFU Mode only if Recovery Mode cannot restore the device or if instructed by a technician. Maintain regular backups, use certified cables, monitor battery health, and update software to minimize future occurrences. When in doubt, document the symptoms and reach out to Apple Support or an authorized service provider for diagnostics and repair.
