How to Perform Soft and Hard Reset on iPhone
Essential guide to resetting your iPhone with step-by-step instructions.
1Types of iPhone Resets
There are three main reset methods for iPhone: Restart, soft reset, and hard reset. Restarting turns the device off and on without data loss. Soft reset resets all settings while preserving personal data. Hard reset restores factory settings, erasing all data. The tech community remains divided on the exact definitions of these terms. Apple's official documentation refers to these processes differently than some third-party sources.
2Benefits of Restarting
Restarting your iPhone clears RAM and closes problematic apps. This simple process can resolve many minor software issues. If the traditional side button and volume up combination doesn't work, an alternative restart method exists. First press and quickly release the volume up button, then do the same with volume down. Finally, hold the side button until the Apple logo appears (may take over 10 seconds). This method bypasses the standard power-off slider.
3Soft Reset Details
A soft reset clears all settings while preserving personal data like photos and messages. It resets Wi-Fi/Bluetooth networks, Apple Pay cards, location/privacy permissions, display/sound settings (wallpaper, alarms, ringtones), and keyboard learned words. You can choose 'Reset All Settings' in Settings app or target specific settings (like network settings) based on your issue. After soft reset, you'll need to reconfigure many preferences and reconnect to Wi-Fi networks.
4Hard Reset Preparation
Since hard reset (factory reset) erases all data, creating an iCloud backup beforehand is crucial. You'll need your Apple ID password and device passcode. If using eSIM, deleting it will require reactivation with your carrier. Hard reset is typically recommended only for severe, unsolvable software issues or before selling/giving away your device. Apple's Activation Lock feature prevents unauthorized use even after reset if Find My iPhone was enabled.
5Restart Steps
1. Press and quickly release volume up button 2. Repeat with volume down button 3. Hold side button until Apple logo appears (may take 10+ seconds) This alternative method works when standard shutdown doesn't respond. No slider appears - the device will directly show Apple logo. Button combinations may vary slightly by iPhone model. Restarting doesn't affect your data or settings, making it the safest first troubleshooting step for most minor issues.
6Soft Reset Steps
1. Open Settings app 2. Go to General > Transfer or Reset iPhone 3. Select 'Reset All Settings' 4. Alternatively choose 'Reset Network Settings' for network-specific issues After completion, your phone will reboot with default settings. You'll need to re-enter Wi-Fi passwords, re-add Apple Pay cards, and reconfigure app permissions. Recent iOS versions require Apple ID password verification before resetting, adding security against unauthorized resets.
7Hard Reset Steps
1. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone 2. Select 'Erase All Content and Settings' 3. Tap Continue 4. Choose to keep or delete eSIM 5. Enter your device passcode and Apple ID password 6. Wait for erase to complete This process returns your iPhone to out-of-box state. All apps, photos, messages and personal data will be permanently deleted. Upon completion, you'll see the initial setup screen. If Activation Lock is enabled, you'll need your Apple ID credentials to set up the device again.
8When to Use Each Method
Use restart for minor freezes and performance issues. Try soft reset for app crashes and connectivity problems. Reserve hard reset for severe software errors or before transferring ownership. Since iOS 15, Apple requires Apple ID verification when resetting settings, adding anti-theft protection. For best results, always back up important data before any reset attempt, especially before hard reset which is irreversible.
Original article: Engadget — iPhone'da Yumuşak ve Sert Sıfırlama Nasıl Yapılır?