Restore your Apple device to its factory settings
You can reinstall the software originally on your device and restore it to its factory settings. You might need to do this if you’re having problems with the device (for example, if it freezes or stops responding frequently) or if you’re getting ready to sell or give it away.
Important: Restoring a device to its factory settings deletes all your information and settings. While restoring, you can choose to back up your device on your Windows device. You can use this backup to restore your information and settings on the device.
Connect your Apple device to your Windows device using a USB or USB-C cable.
In the Apple Devices app
on your Windows device, select the device in the sidebar.
Select General in the sidebar.
Select “Restore [device]”, then follow the onscreen instructions.
![The “Restore [device]” button appears next to the “Check for Update” button.](https://help.apple.com/assets/661DAD4A8A701297720892FF/661DAD4AC0D706350C045B81/en_GB/7a4b4b5dc59d83d1c18f2e444f472a56.png)