In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to manually install iOS 14 on your Apple device. Whether you are eager to explore the latest features or facing difficulties with automatic updates, this guide will walk you through the entire installation process. So, if you are ready to upgrade your device to iOS 14, let’s get started!
Prerequisites For Manual Installation Of IOS 14
Before you begin the manual installation of iOS 14, there are a few prerequisites that you need to ensure. First and foremost, make sure that your iPhone or iPad is compatible with iOS 14. You can check this by referring to Apple’s official list of compatible devices.
Next, ensure that you have a stable and reliable internet connection. Since you will be downloading the iOS 14 IPSW file, a slow or unreliable connection can lead to incomplete or corrupted downloads.
Additionally, make sure that you have the latest version of iTunes installed on your computer. iTunes is required to manually install iOS updates.
Another important prerequisite is to create a backup of your device. This will help you safeguard your data in case anything goes wrong during the installation process.
Lastly, ensure that your device has enough storage space to accommodate the iOS 14 update. It is recommended to have at least 5GB of free space available before proceeding with the installation.
By fulfilling these prerequisites, you can proceed with confidence in manually installing iOS 14 on your device.
Step 1: Downloading The IOS 14 IPSW File
Downloading the iOS 14 IPSW file is the first step in manually installing iOS 14 on your device. IPSW stands for iPhone/iPod Software, and it contains the firmware package for iOS devices.
To download the iOS 14 IPSW file, follow these steps:
1. Ensure that you have a stable and reliable internet connection on your computer.
2. Open a web browser and go to the official Apple Developer website or a trusted third-party website that provides iOS firmware downloads.
3. Locate the appropriate IPSW file for your device model and version of iOS 14. It is crucial to choose the correct IPSW file for your specific device, as using the wrong firmware can cause issues.
4. Click on the download button next to the IPSW file to start the download process.
5. Depending on your internet speed and the size of the IPSW file, the download may take some time. It is recommended to download the IPSW file to a location on your computer where you can easily locate it later.
Once the download is complete, you are now ready to proceed with the manual installation of iOS 14 on your iPhone or iPad.
Step 2: Backing Up Your Device
Before proceeding with the manual installation of iOS 14, it is crucial to backup your device to ensure that none of your data is lost during the process. Backing up your iPhone or iPad will create a copy of all your important files, settings, and preferences, allowing you to restore them after installing the new operating system.
To back up your device, you have two options: using iCloud or using iTunes. If you choose to use iCloud, make sure you have a stable internet connection and enough iCloud storage space for the backup. Simply go to Settings, tap on your Apple ID, select iCloud, and enable iCloud Backup. Then, tap on “Back Up Now” to start the backup process.
If you prefer using iTunes, connect your device to your computer and open iTunes. Select your device from the iTunes interface, click on “Back Up Now,” and wait for the backup to complete. It is recommended to encrypt your iTunes backup to secure your sensitive data like passwords.
Backing up your device is a crucial step to prevent any potential data loss, so ensure that you have a recent backup before proceeding to the next step.
Step 3: Entering DFU Mode On Your IPhone Or IPad
Entering DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode is a crucial step in manually installing iOS 14. DFU mode allows you to interface with your device on a deep level, making it possible to install firmware even if your device is experiencing serious issues.
To enter DFU mode, follow these steps:
1. Connect your iPhone or iPad to your computer using a USB cable.
2. Press and quickly release the volume up button.
3. Press and quickly release the volume down button.
4. Press and hold the side or power button until the screen goes black.
5. As soon as the screen goes black, press and hold both the side or power button and the volume down button together for 5 seconds.
6. Release the side or power button, but continue holding the volume down button for about 8-10 seconds.
If you have successfully entered DFU mode, your device’s screen will remain black, indicating that it is ready to be restored or updated using iTunes. This is a crucial step to ensure a smooth and successful manual installation of iOS 14.
Step 4: Using ITunes To Manually Install IOS 14
Once you have successfully entered DFU mode on your iPhone or iPad, you can proceed to install iOS 14 using iTunes. Make sure you have the latest version of iTunes installed on your computer before proceeding with this step.
1. Connect your iPhone or iPad to your computer using a lightning cable.
2. Launch iTunes on your computer and wait for it to detect your device.
3. In iTunes, locate your device icon and click on it to access its summary page.
4. On the Summary tab, click on the “Check for Update” button while holding down the Option key (Mac) or the Shift key (Windows). This will allow you to manually select the iOS 14 IPSW file you downloaded in the previous step.
5. Browse your computer for the iOS 14 IPSW file and select it. Click on “Open” to start the installation process.
6. iTunes will verify the IPSW file and begin installing iOS 14 on your device. Do not disconnect your device during this process.
7. Once the installation is complete, your device will reboot with the new iOS 14 installed.
Using iTunes to manually install iOS 14 can be a bit complicated, but it provides a reliable method for those who prefer more control over the installation process.
Step 5: Restoring Your Data And Settings
After successfully installing iOS 14 on your iPhone or iPad, the next step is to restore your data and settings. This ensures that all your apps, contacts, messages, photos, and other important information are present on your device.
To begin the restoration process, connect your device to your computer and open iTunes. If you’re using a Mac with macOS Catalina or later, you can use the Finder instead.
Next, select your device from the left-hand sidebar or the Finder window. Under the Backups section, choose the most recent backup that you created before installing iOS 14.
Click on the “Restore Backup” button and confirm your selection. The restoration process will begin, and it may take some time depending on the size of your backup and the speed of your computer.
Once the restoration is complete, your device will restart, and you’ll be guided through the setup process. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up Face ID or Touch ID, choose your language and region, and sign in to your Apple ID.
Finally, you’ll be prompted to restore apps and data from your backup. Select the option to restore from the backup you just created, and wait for the process to finish. Your device will then be fully restored, and you can start using iOS 14 with all your data and settings intact.
Troubleshooting Common Issues During Manual Installation Of IOS 14
During the manual installation of iOS 14, you may encounter some common issues that can hinder the process. It is important to be aware of these potential problems and know how to address them effectively. This section will provide solutions to some of the most frequently encountered problems.
One common issue is the device getting stuck or freezing during the installation process. If this occurs, you can try restarting your device or performing a hard reset by holding down the power and home buttons simultaneously. If the problem persists, you may need to restore your device to its factory settings and then attempt the installation again.
Another issue you may encounter is the IPSW file not being recognized by iTunes. In this case, make sure you have downloaded the correct IPSW file for your specific device model. If the issue persists, try deleting the existing IPSW file and redownloading it. You can also try using a different USB cable or USB port to connect your device to the computer.
It is also possible to encounter errors during the installation process, such as error codes or messages. These errors can be frustrating, but they often have specific troubleshooting steps associated with them. Look for the specific error code or message you encounter, and search online for solutions provided by Apple or other reliable sources.
By being prepared for these common issues and equipped with the knowledge to troubleshoot them, you can ensure a smoother and more successful manual installation of iOS 14 on your device.
FAQ
1. How do I check if my device is compatible with iOS 14?
To check if your device is compatible with iOS 14, go to the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad, then navigate to General > Software Update. If an update to iOS 14 is available, it means your device is compatible.
2. What should I do before installing iOS 14 manually?
Before starting the manual installation of iOS 14, it is essential to back up your device. This can be done through iCloud or by connecting your device to a computer and using iTunes to create a backup. Backing up ensures you can restore your data in case of any issues during the installation process.
3. How do I manually download the iOS 14 IPSW file?
To download the iOS 14 IPSW file for manual installation, visit the Apple Developer website or trusted third-party websites that offer iOS firmware downloads. Locate the appropriate IPSW file for your device model and download it to your computer.
4. What are the steps to manually install iOS 14?
Here is a step-by-step guide to manually install iOS 14:
1. Connect your device to your computer and launch iTunes (macOS Mojave and earlier) or Finder (macOS Catalina and later).
2. Put your device in Recovery Mode or DFU Mode, following the specific instructions for your device.
3. In iTunes or Finder, select your device and navigate to the Summary or General tab.
4. Hold the “Option” key (Mac) or “Shift” key (Windows) and click on the “Restore” or “Update” button.
5. Choose the iOS 14 IPSW file you downloaded in the previous step.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
7. After the installation completes, set up your device and restore your data from the backup you made earlier.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, manually installing iOS 14 can be a straightforward process if you follow the step-by-step guide provided. By ensuring you have the necessary requirements, backing up your device, and carefully following each instruction, you can successfully upgrade your iOS to enjoy the new features and improvements offered by iOS 14. Remember to exercise caution and seek professional help if you encounter any difficulties during the installation process.