How to Do Software Reset on iPhone: The Complete Step-by-Step Guide for Every iPhone Model

If your iPhone is freezing, running slowly, apps keep crashing, or the device is behaving strangely, learning how to do software reset on iPhone can solve many common problems without deleting your personal data.

A software reset is one of the safest troubleshooting methods available for iPhone users. Unlike a factory reset, a software reset does not erase photos, messages, contacts, apps, or settings. Instead, it simply restarts the operating system and clears temporary glitches that may be causing performance issues.

In this comprehensive guide, you will learn exactly how to do software reset on iPhone, when you should use it, what happens during the process, and how the steps differ across various iPhone models, including older devices such as the iPhone 5s.

Whether you own the newest iPhone or an older model, this guide provides everything you need to know in simple, easy-to-follow language.

What Is a Software Reset on an iPhone?

A software reset is a restart procedure that refreshes the iPhone’s operating system without removing your personal information.

Many users confuse a software reset with a factory reset. These are completely different processes.

A software reset:

Restarts iOS
Clears temporary memory issues
Fixes minor software bugs
Does not erase data
Takes less than a minute

A factory reset:

Erases all content and settings
Removes apps and accounts
Returns the iPhone to its original state
Requires setup from scratch

When people search for how to do software reset on iPhone, they are usually looking for a safe way to fix device problems without losing important information.

Why You Might Need a Software Reset

Your iPhone may benefit from a software reset in many situations.

Common signs include:

Frozen Screen

Sometimes the display becomes unresponsive and does not react to taps or swipes.

Apps Keep Crashing

Applications may unexpectedly close or fail to load properly.

Slow Performance

An iPhone can occasionally become sluggish due to temporary software issues.

Touchscreen Problems

The screen may respond slowly or inconsistently.

Network Issues

Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular connections may stop working correctly.

Battery Drain

Unexpected battery consumption can sometimes be resolved through a software reset.

System Glitches After Updates

After installing a new iOS update, temporary bugs may appear that disappear after a restart.

Also Read: How Can I Update My iPhone Software? The Complete Step-by-Step Guide for 2026

Understanding the Different Types of iPhone Resets

Before learning how to do software reset on iPhone, it is important to understand the available reset options.

Standard Restart

A regular shutdown and restart.

Best for:

Minor issues
Slow performance
Small glitches

Force Restart

A stronger reset that forces the device to reboot.

Best for:

Frozen screens
Black screens
Unresponsive devices

Factory Reset

A complete wipe of the device.

Best for:

Selling an iPhone
Serious software corruption
Starting fresh

For most troubleshooting situations, a software reset means either a standard restart or a force restart.

How to Do Software Reset on iPhone (Newer Models)

If you own an iPhone X, XR, XS, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or later model, follow these steps.

Method 1: Standard Software Reset

Press and hold the Side button and either Volume button.
Wait until the power slider appears.
Drag the slider to turn off the phone.
Wait 30 seconds.
Press and hold the Side button again.
Release when the Apple logo appears.

This is the easiest method for how to do a software reset on iPhone when the device is still responding normally.

How to Force Restart Newer iPhones

If the screen is frozen, use this method.

Quickly press Volume Up.
Quickly press Volume Down.
Press and hold the Side button.
Continue holding until the Apple logo appears.
Release the button.

This process forces the operating system to restart.

Many Apple technicians recommend this method as the first troubleshooting step before trying more advanced solutions.

How to Do Software Reset on iPhone 8 and iPhone SE (2nd Generation and Later)

The process is almost identical to newer iPhones.

Normal Restart

Hold the Side button.
Drag the power slider.
Wait 30 seconds.
Turn the phone back on.

Force Restart

Press Volume Up.
Press Volume Down.
Hold the Side button.
Wait for the Apple logo.

This procedure refreshes the operating system without affecting personal files.

How to Do Software Reset on iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus

The iPhone 7 series uses a different method.

Standard Restart

Hold the Side button.
Move the power slider.
Wait for shutdown.
Turn the phone back on.

Force Restart

Press and hold the Volume Down button.
Press and hold the Side button simultaneously.
Keep holding both buttons.
Release when the Apple logo appears.

This remains one of the most effective troubleshooting methods for iPhone 7 users.

How to Do a Software Reset on iPhone 6s and Earlier Models

Older iPhones use the Home button for resets.

Normal Restart

Press and hold the Power button.
Move the power slider.
Wait for shutdown.
Restart the phone.

Force Restart

Hold the Home button.
Hold the Power button.
Continue holding both.
Release after the Apple logo appears.

The process works for:

iPhone 6s
iPhone 6
iPhone 6 Plus
iPhone 5s
iPhone 5
iPhone 4s

How to Do a Software Reset on iPhone 5s

Many users still search specifically for how to do a software reset on iPhone 5s.

Although the device is older, the reset procedure remains simple.

Regular Software Reset for iPhone 5s

Press and hold the Power button located on top of the device.
Wait for the Slide to Power Off screen.
Move the slider.
Wait 30 seconds.
Press the Power button again until the Apple logo appears.

Force Software Reset for iPhone 5s

If the phone is frozen:

Hold the Home button.
Hold the Power button.
Keep both buttons pressed.
Ignore the shutdown screen.
Release both buttons after the Apple logo appears.

This method is the official approach for how to do a software reset on iPhone 5s when the device becomes unresponsive.

Also Read: Do Mini Computers Come With Windows 11 and Other Software? A Complete Guide for Buyers in 2026

What Happens During a Software Reset?

Many people worry about losing data.

Fortunately, a software reset is completely safe.

The process:

Reloads iOS
Clears temporary memory
Ends problematic background processes
Refreshes network services
Restarts system functions

The process does not:

Delete photos
Delete videos
Remove apps
Erase messages
Remove contacts
Delete passwords

Think of it as rebooting a computer rather than reinstalling it.

Benefits of Performing a Software Reset

A software reset offers several advantages.

Improved Performance

Temporary software issues are often cleared immediately.

Better App Stability

Apps may stop crashing after the restart.

Reduced System Lag

Many users notice smoother navigation.

Network Refresh

Wi-Fi and cellular services often reconnect properly.

Battery Optimization

Background processes causing battery drain may stop running.

Quick Troubleshooting

It takes less than a minute and requires no technical expertise.

Common Problems Fixed by a Software Reset

A software reset can resolve many everyday issues.

Examples include:

Frozen applications
Touchscreen lag
Keyboard delays
Bluetooth problems
Wi-Fi connection failures
App crashes
Camera glitches
Notification issues
Audio problems
Performance slowdowns

While it is not a cure for every problem, it is often the fastest solution.

When a Software Reset May Not Work

Some issues require more advanced troubleshooting.

Examples include:

Physical Damage

A reset cannot repair broken hardware.

Water Damage

Liquid exposure requires professional diagnosis.

Battery Failure

A worn battery may need replacement.

Storage Problems

An almost-full device may continue performing poorly.

Corrupted iOS Installation

You may need to update or restore the device.

Software Reset vs Hard Reset

These terms are often used interchangeably, but many technicians make a distinction.

Software Reset

Normal restart
Gentle reboot
No data loss

Hard Reset

Force restart
Emergency reboot
Used when frozen

Both methods are safe and do not erase personal data.

Best Practices Before Performing a Software Reset

Although a software reset is safe, following a few best practices can help.

Save Unsaved Work

Close documents or notes you are editing.

Charge the Battery

Maintain at least 20% battery power.

Close Critical Applications

Allow apps to save recent changes.

Back Up Important Data

Regular backups are always recommended.

How Often Should You Reset Your iPhone?

There is no fixed schedule.

However, many technology professionals suggest restarting your iPhone occasionally.

Good situations include:

After major iOS updates
When experiencing slow performance
After installing many new apps
When battery behavior seems unusual

A weekly or biweekly restart can help maintain smooth performance.

Can a Software Reset Improve Battery Life?

Sometimes, yes.

If a background process becomes stuck, battery consumption can increase.

A software reset:

Stops problematic processes
Refreshes background services
Re-establishes normal system operations

While it will not repair an old battery, it may improve temporary battery issues.

How Software Resets Help After iOS Updates

After installing an iOS update, your device performs many background tasks.

These tasks may include:

Indexing files
Rebuilding databases
Optimizing apps

Occasionally, small glitches appear.

Performing a software reset can help finalize these background operations and improve overall performance.

Signs That Your iPhone Needs More Than a Software Reset

Watch for these warning signs.

Repeated Freezing

If freezes happen daily, deeper troubleshooting may be necessary.

Random Restarts

Unexpected reboots could indicate software corruption or hardware problems.

Battery Swelling

This requires immediate professional service.

Persistent App Crashes

You may need app updates or an iOS reinstall.

Storage Warnings

Insufficient storage can create performance issues that a reset cannot solve.

Advanced Troubleshooting After a Software Reset

If problems continue, try the following steps.

Update iOS

Install the latest version of iOS.

Update Apps

Outdated applications may cause instability.

Check Storage Space

Remove unused apps and files.

Reset Network Settings

This can resolve connection issues.

Restore Through Computer

A full restore may fix serious software corruption.

Contact Apple Support

Professional assistance may be necessary for persistent issues.

Mistakes to Avoid During an iPhone Software Reset

Many users make simple mistakes.

Holding the Wrong Buttons

Different models use different button combinations.

Releasing Buttons Too Early

Wait until the Apple logo appears.

Confusing a Factory Reset with a Software Reset

Always confirm which procedure you are performing.

Ignoring Battery Issues

If the battery is failing, a reset may not solve the problem.

Expert Insights on iPhone Software Resets

One reason software resets are so effective is that modern smartphones run many background processes simultaneously.

Over time, temporary files, stalled services, and software conflicts can accumulate. A restart clears these temporary conditions and allows the operating system to reload essential services from a clean state.

In practical terms, a software reset is similar to giving your iPhone a fresh start without changing any of your personal information.

Also Read: What Is Team Software Process? A Complete Guide to TSP in Modern Software Development

Many users immediately jump to factory resets when experiencing problems. In reality, a simple software reset often resolves the issue in less than a minute. This makes it one of the most valuable troubleshooting tools available to every iPhone owner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a software reset remove viruses from an iPhone?

A software reset may stop suspicious processes temporarily, but it is not designed to remove malware. Updating iOS and removing suspicious apps is usually more effective.

Can I perform a software reset while charging my iPhone?

Yes. A software reset can be performed while the device is connected to a charger.

Will my Apple ID be removed after a software reset?

No. Your Apple ID, settings, and account information remain unchanged.

Can a software reset fix Face ID problems?

Minor Face ID glitches may be resolved through a restart, but hardware-related issues usually require additional troubleshooting.

Does a software reset affect eSIM settings?

No. eSIM information remains intact after a software reset.

Can I reset an iPhone if the Side button is broken?

Yes. You can power off through Settings > General > Shut Down if the touchscreen still works.

Will alarms still work after a software reset?

Yes. Existing alarms remain saved and active after the device restarts.

Can a software reset improve gaming performance?

In some cases, yes. Restarting the device can free system resources and improve game stability.

Is it safe to perform multiple software resets in one day?

Yes. Software resets do not damage the iPhone and can be performed whenever necessary.

Can a software reset fix overheating issues?

If overheating is caused by a temporary software process, a reset may help. Persistent overheating may indicate a hardware or battery issue.

Conclusion

Knowing how to do software reset on iPhone is one of the most useful skills every iPhone owner should learn. Whether your device is running slowly, freezing, experiencing app crashes, or showing unusual behavior, a software reset provides a quick and safe solution without deleting any personal data.

The process varies slightly depending on your iPhone model, but the goal remains the same: refresh the operating system and clear temporary software issues. Whether you are learning how to do a software reset on iPhone, troubleshooting a frozen screen, or specifically searching for how to do a software reset on iPhone 5s, the steps outlined in this guide can help restore normal performance in just a few minutes.

Before considering more drastic measures such as a factory reset, always start with a software reset. It is fast, safe, and often surprisingly effective. For millions of iPhone users, this simple troubleshooting step remains the first and best solution for solving everyday iOS problems.