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You are here: Home / Tutorials / How to Hard Reboot iPhone: A Step-by-Step Guide for All Models

How to Hard Reboot iPhone: A Step-by-Step Guide for All Models

January 13, 2026 By Matthew Burleigh

how to hard reboot iPhone

Need to fix your iPhone quickly? A hard reboot might just be the trick. This method refreshes your device by restarting it completely, which can help solve many minor issues like freezing or unresponsive apps. Remember, it’s different from a regular restart and doesn’t erase your data. Let’s dive into how you can perform this simple yet effective action.

How to Hard Reboot iPhone

When your iPhone is acting up, a hard reboot can clear temporary glitches. Here’s how you can do it based on different iPhone models.

Step 1: Quickly Press and Release the Volume Up Button

For iPhone 8 and later, start by giving the volume up button a quick tap.

This is the first part of the sequence and sets the process in motion. Remember, you’re not holding the button, just pressing it quickly.

Step 2: Quickly Press and Release the Volume Down Button

Next, give the volume down button a quick press and release.

Just like the first step, this is a quick action. It’s important to press and release promptly to ensure the sequence is correct.

Step 3: Press and Hold the Side Button

Now, press and hold the side button until you see the Apple logo.

This step might take a few seconds. Keep holding the button even if you see the power-off slider. Release the button only when the Apple logo appears.

Step 4: For iPhone 7 Series, Hold Volume Down and Power Button

If you have an iPhone 7 or 7 Plus, hold both the volume down and power buttons until the Apple logo appears.

Unlike the newer models, this version requires you to press two buttons simultaneously. It’s a slightly different method but achieves the same result.

Step 5: For iPhone 6s and Earlier, Hold Home and Power Button

For older models like the iPhone 6s, hold the home and power buttons together until you see the Apple logo.

This method is for those with older iPhone models. You’re using the home button instead of the volume buttons.

Once you’ve successfully performed a hard reboot, your iPhone will restart, clearing out minor bugs and glitches. You’ll see the familiar Apple logo, and soon after, your device should be back to normal, running more smoothly.

Tips for Hard Rebooting iPhone

  • Always ensure your iPhone has enough battery before attempting a reboot.
  • A hard reboot is safe but don’t confuse it with a factory reset, which erases all data.
  • If problems persist after a hard reboot, consider seeking professional help.
  • Regularly backing up your data can prevent loss during unexpected issues.
  • Familiarize yourself with the steps for your specific iPhone model to avoid mistakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a hard reboot delete my data?

No, a hard reboot will not delete any data. It simply restarts your phone to fix minor issues.

How often should I hard reboot my iPhone?

There’s no need to do it regularly. Only perform a hard reboot when your iPhone is unresponsive or glitchy.

Will a hard reboot fix all issues?

A hard reboot can fix minor problems, but for persistent issues, further troubleshooting might be needed.

Can I perform a hard reboot with a broken button?

If a physical button is broken, you may need professional repair before you can perform a hard reboot.

Is it bad to hard reboot my iPhone often?

Frequent hard reboots aren’t harmful, but they’re usually unnecessary. Use them only when needed.

Summary

  1. Press and release the volume up button quickly.
  2. Press and release the volume down button quickly.
  3. Press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears.
  4. For iPhone 7, hold volume down and power buttons.
  5. For iPhone 6s, hold home and power buttons.

Conclusion

So, there you have it—a quick guide on how to hard reboot your iPhone. This simple action can be a lifesaver when your phone starts acting up. Remember, it’s like giving your iPhone a mini-refresh without affecting any personal data. It’s a handy trick to keep in your back pocket for those moments when a glitchy app or frozen screen makes you want to throw your phone out the window.

If you’re dealing with repeated issues, it might be time to look deeper or consult a professional. But for many, a hard reboot is like hitting the reset button on a day gone wrong. Easy, effective, and safe, it’s a technique every iPhone user should know.

For more tech tips and tricks, keep exploring and empowering yourself with knowledge. After all, your iPhone is more than just a device—it’s a tool that should work for you, not against you!

Matthew Burleigh
Matthew Burleigh

Matt has been working with WordPress and creating content using this powerful content management system for years. While he has written about many other tech topics, WordPress is one of his favorites.

You can read his full bio here.

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