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MichiganGreatLake's avatar
MichiganGreatLake
Iron Contributor
Dec 19, 2024

How Can I Downgrade iOS 18 to iOS 17 on a Windows PC?

Hello everyone, I hope you're all doing well. I'm reaching out to this community for assistance with a challenge I'm currently facing. Recently, I updated my iPhone 14 Pro] to iOS 18. While the new...
Nguyenais's avatar
Nguyenais
Bronze Contributor
Dec 20, 2024

Downgrading your iOS device from iOS 18 to iOS 17 can help resolve compatibility issues, restore preferred features, or enhance overall device performance. While Apple generally encourages users to update to the latest iOS version, there are scenarios where reverting to a previous version becomes necessary. Performing this downgrade on a Windows PC involves specific steps to ensure a smooth and secure transition. Below, we explore two effective methods to achieve this.

How to Use iTunes to Downgrade from iOS 18 to 17

Step 1: Before initiating the downgrade, ensure you back up your iOS device to prevent data loss. Open iTunes, select your device, and click on "Back Up Now."

Step 2: Visit a trusted website like ipsw.me to download the correct iOS 17 IPSW file for your device.

Step 3: Use the USB cable to connect your iOS device to the Windows PC. Open iTunes and select your device when it appears.

Step 4: Enter Recovery Mode. For most devices, press and hold the Volume Down and Power buttons simultaneously until the recovery mode screen appears. On devices with a Home button, press and hold the Home and Power buttons instead.

Step 5: In iTunes, hold the Shift key and click on the "Restore iPhone" button. A file browser window will appear. Navigate to and select the downloaded iOS 17 IPSW file. Confirm your selection and allow iTunes to begin the restoration process.

Step 6: iTunes will verify the IPSW file and install iOS 17 on your device. Once completed, your device will restart, and you can set it up as new or restore from the backup made earlier.

Note: Downgrading is only possible if Apple is still signing the iOS 17 firmware. If Apple has stopped signing iOS 17, this method will not work, and you may encounter errors during the process.

By following the methods outlined above, you can attempt to downgrade iOS device from iOS 18 to iOS 17 on a Windows PC. Always ensure you understand the risks involved and take necessary precautions to safeguard your data and device integrity.

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