Before you start: back up
Use Settings › your name › iCloud › iCloud Backup › Back Up Now, or connect to a computer and back up with Finder (Mac) or the Apple Devices app/iTunes (Windows).
Reset from Settings
- Settings › General › Transfer or Reset iPhone.
- Tap Erase All Content and Settings.
- Enter your passcode and Apple ID password (this also turns off Find My and Activation Lock).
- Wait for the "Hello" screen.
Forgot your passcode? Reset without it
On the lock screen: after several wrong attempts, recent iOS versions show Forgot Passcode? › Start iPhone Reset. You'll need your Apple ID password.
With a computer (recovery mode): Apple's instructions are at support.apple.com/iphone/restore. Connect the iPhone, then force it into recovery mode and choose Restore. After the reset you'll still need the Apple ID that was on the phone.
Force restart buttons (iPhone 8 and newer)
Press and quickly release volume up, press and quickly release volume down, then press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears. Keep holding while connected to a computer to enter recovery mode.
Reset network settings only
Settings › General › Transfer or Reset iPhone › Reset › Reset Network Settings. This fixes many Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and mobile-data problems without erasing your data.
Frequently asked questions
How do I factory reset my iPhone without the password?
Use "Forgot Passcode? › Start iPhone Reset" on the lock screen (needs your Apple ID password) or restore it in recovery mode with a computer.
Does a factory reset remove iCloud?
Erasing from Settings with your Apple ID password removes Activation Lock. Restoring through recovery mode does not, so the original Apple ID is still needed.