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How to Hard Reset iPhone: Complete Guide

20/05/2026 - 06:50 - Tiago Miguel Magalhães de Abreu
How to Hard Reset iPhone: Complete Guide

Sometimes our iPhone can freeze, become slow, or exhibit issues that require a more thorough intervention. In these situations, a hard reset of the iPhone is an effective solution to restore the normal operation of the device without losing important data. This procedure is particularly useful for models from the iPhone X to the latest iPhone 17 Pro Max, which share similar methods for performing this action.

At iServices, we understand how important it is to have your iPhone working quickly and efficiently. That is why we have prepared this detailed article explaining what a hard reset is, when to perform it, and how to do it safely. Discover also the most common causes that lead to the need for a hard reset and the recommended solutions.

When is an iPhone reset necessary?

iPhone frozen or unresponsive

It often happens that the iPhone no longer responds to touches or buttons and freezes completely. This problem can occur due to temporary errors in the operating system or applications that crash.

Problems after iOS updates

Operating system updates can sometimes cause incompatibilities or bugs that affect the iPhone's performance, making a hard reset necessary to correct errors.

Conflicting applications

Some applications can conflict with each other, leading to freezes or slowdowns in the phone's operation, which can be resolved with a hard reset.

Hardware or software errors

Serious hardware problems, such as faulty buttons, or software errors can make the iPhone unusable without a forced restart.

Solution table

CauseRecommended solutionComplexity
iPhone frozenHard resetLow
Problems after updateHard reset + update via iTunes/FinderMedium
Conflicting applicationsHard reset + remove problematic applicationsMedium
Hardware/software errorProfessional diagnosis + repairHigh

Step-by-step solutions

Hard reset for a frozen iPhone

  • Press and quickly release the volume up button.
  • Press and quickly release the volume down button.
  • Press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears.
  • Release the button and wait for the iPhone to restart.

This method applies to all iPhones from the iPhone X to the iPhone 17 Pro Max and solves most temporary blocks.

Hard reset and update via iTunes/Finder

  • Connect the iPhone to the computer with the original cable.
  • Open iTunes (Windows/macOS Mojave or older) or Finder (macOS Catalina or newer).
  • Perform a hard reset according to the previous method, but keep holding the side button until recovery mode appears.
  • In iTunes/Finder, choose "Update" to reinstall iOS without erasing the data.
  • Follow the instructions on the screen until the update is complete.

Identify and remove problematic applications

  • Perform the hard reset to unlock the iPhone.
  • Open settings and go to "General" > "iPhone Storage".
  • Check the applications that consume the most resources or show errors.
  • Delete the suspicious applications and restart the device.

Professional diagnosis and repair

If the iPhone still shows errors after the hard reset and other solutions, there may be a hardware problem. We recommend the following:

Visit an iServices store for a free diagnosis.

  • Let our specialized technicians assess the hardware.
  • Proceed to repair with original parts and iServices warranty.

How do I perform a hard reset on the iPhone 11?

On the iPhone 11, you must press and release the volume up button, then the volume down button, and finally hold down the side button until the Apple logo appears. This will restart the iPhone without data loss.

What happens if I perform a hard reset on the iPhone?

The hard reset forces the iPhone to restart, ending frozen processes or temporary errors. It does not erase the content of the device, unlike a factory reset.

When is a hard reset recommended on the iPhone?

You should perform a hard reset when the iPhone freezes, becomes unresponsive, runs extremely slow, or after errors following operating system updates.

Can I perform a hard reset without losing data?

Yes. The hard reset is a forced restart that does not remove any data, messages, applications, or personal content from your iPhone.

Do you need professional help? iServices is here for you

If you encounter problems performing a hard reset on your iPhone or if the problem persists, do not hesitate to visit one of our stores. Our specialized technicians offer free diagnosis and fast repair solutions, with warranty and the use of original parts.

At iServices, we also offer express delivery and technical assistance nationwide, so your iPhone works like new as quickly as possible. Consult more information on our website. Trust iServices to take care of your phone with complete safety and professionalism.

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