How to restore IPSW firmware file with 3utools

How to restore IPSW firmware file with 3utools

How to restore IPSW firmware file with 3utools

3utools is one of the top-notch iOS repair tools out there and it comes bundled with many awesome functions. From simple file managing to system backup and restore. With 3utools, you can restore IPSW signed and unsigned firmware. This short guide is there to enlighten you on how to restore IPSW firmware file with 3utools.

Note that if you have 3utools installed on your computer, you can directly get IPSW to restore firmware files from it directly and use it to flash your iDevice. Also, if you already had the IPSW firmware downloaded prior to installing 3utools, you can still import it and flash your device with it.

What to take note of or do before your flash your iDevice

  • Always backup your iDevice before restoring or flashing a new firmware update. This won't be necessary if the device is bricked. But it is very important for those trying to either downgrade or upgrade their iOS version.
  • Remember your iCloud details as it might be required after flashing. This goes especially to those repairing bricked iDevices.
  • iTunes or iTunes drivers must be installed on your computer.

Flashing or restoring IPSW firmware with 3utools

It should be noted that your device has to be in recovery mode or DFU
  • You need to be connected before flashing your iDevice. Once you are connected, launch 3utools and plug in your device using the USB to lightning cable.
  • If drivers or iTunes is installed, your iDevice will get detected.
  • Now, click on the "Flash & JB" tab, then "Easy Flash" and you should see available firmware files for your device. 
How to restore IPSW firmware file with 3utools

  • You can choose to download the latest version or any other. But if you already have the IPSW file on your computer, you can simply import it.
How to restore IPSW firmware file with 3utools

  • If you are to download from 3utools, you will have to wait for the firmware to be downloaded before you start flashing. On the other hand, if you imported an already download IPSW file, then you are ready to flash right away.
How to restore IPSW firmware file with 3utools

  • To flash, you simply have to click on the "Flash" button. Take note that you can choose to keep your data while flashing. To do that, simply check the "Retain user's data while flashing" option.
How to restore IPSW firmware file with 3utools

  • Once the flashing start, you just have to sit by and wait. You will see the progression as the flashing starts.


How to restore IPSW firmware file with 3utools

  • Wait for it to complete and there you go.
How to restore IPSW firmware file with 3utools

After performing all the steps above, your iDevice should be restored. You simply have to power it on and wait for the system files to get installed.

And as mentioned above, if the device had iCloud activated, after restoring system if it was bricked, you will need to enter iCloud details to activate your device.

Bear in mind that flashing won't bypass iCloud on your iDevice.