How to Fix Restore Error Code 1109 on iPhone or iPad?
When you're trying to restore your iPhone or iPad using iTunes (on Windows) or Finder (on macOS Catalina or later), you might see an error that says “The iPhone could not be restored. An unknown error occurred (1109).” This error code means something went wrong during the restore process, and it wasn’t able to complete successfully.
This issue can happen for different reasons. It might be due to a problem with the USB connection, outdated software, a temporary glitch, or a more serious issue like a damaged backup file or device hardware problem.
Key Takeaways
- Error 1109 usually relates to faulty cables, outdated software, or corrupted backups.
- Start with simple fixes (USB check, update iTunes/macOS).
- Use Recovery or DFU Mode if basic steps fail.
- Try a different computer or stable internet if needed.
- Seek professional help if it appears to be hardware-related.
Why Does Error 1109 Happen? (Causes)
To fix the issue properly, it’s important to understand why it might happen:
A faulty USB cable or port
If you're using a damaged or non-certified cable or if the USB port on your computer has an issue, the data transfer during the restore can get interrupted, causing an error.
Old version of iTunes or macOS
If you haven’t updated your iTunes or macOS in a while, your computer might not communicate properly with the latest iOS version on your device.
Software glitch in iOS
Your iPhone or iPad software might be stuck or behaving unusually, and that can interfere with the restore process.
Antivirus or Firewall Interference
Some antivirus software or firewalls block iTunes or Finder from connecting to Apple’s servers or to your device correctly.
Corrupted or incomplete backup file
If you're trying to restore from a backup that has missing or damaged data, the restore process might stop midway and show error 1109.
Weak or unstable internet connection
During the restore, your computer might need to connect to Apple servers. A slow or unreliable internet connection can interrupt this.
How to Fix Restore Error Code 1109: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Check and Replace Your USB Cable or Port
Use only the original Apple Lightning cable if possible.
If you're using a third-party cable, make sure it is MFi-certified (Made for iPhone).
Plug the cable directly into the computer’s USB port. Avoid using USB hubs or extension devices.
If one port doesn’t work, try a different USB port on your computer.
If available, test a different cable entirely.
Step 2: Update iTunes or macOS
On Windows: Open iTunes, then go to Help > Check for Updates. Install any available updates.
On Mac: Go to System Settings > General > Software Update and check for any macOS updates. If you're using macOS Catalina or later, the Finder handles restores, not iTunes.
Step 3: Restart All Devices
Power off your iPhone or iPad completely and then turn it back on.
Restart your computer as well.
After both devices reboot, try the restore process again.
Step 4: Temporarily Turn Off Antivirus and Firewall Software
If you have antivirus software or a firewall running, temporarily disable it.
This is important because security software might block iTunes or Finder from connecting to Apple servers or to your iOS device.
After disabling, try restoring your iPhone or iPad again.
Don’t forget to turn your antivirus back on after completing the restore.
Step 5: Use Recovery Mode to Restore Your Device
1. Connect your iPhone or iPad to the computer with a USB cable.
2. Force your device into Recovery Mode:
For iPhones with Face ID or iPads without a Home button: Quickly press and release Volume Up, then Volume Down, then press and hold the Power button until the recovery screen appears.
For iPhone 7 and 7 Plus: Press and hold the Volume Down and Power buttons at the same time.
For older iPhones or iPads with a Home button: Press and hold the Home and Power buttons together.
3. Your computer will detect that your device is in recovery mode and will prompt you to either Restore or Update. Choose Restore.
Step 6: Try a Different Computer
If possible, use a different computer to try the restore process.
This helps eliminate issues that might be specific to your original computer, such as a bad USB port, outdated drivers, or software conflicts.
Step 7: Make Sure Your Internet is Stable
Your computer might need to connect to Apple’s servers during the restore. If your internet is slow, spotty, or cuts out during the process, the restore could fail.
Use a stable, fast Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection if possible.
Step 8: Use DFU Mode (Advanced Restore Option)
If none of the above steps work, try putting your device into DFU mode, which stands for Device Firmware Update. This is a deeper restore mode that reloads both the software and the firmware on your device:
Connect your device to the computer.
Put it into DFU mode (steps differ depending on your iPhone/iPad model).
When your computer detects the device in DFU mode, it will offer to restore it.
Follow the instructions and allow the full restore process to complete.
Note: DFU mode erases everything on your device, so use this only if you’ve backed up your data or are okay with starting fresh.
Still Not Working? Visit a Professional
If none of the above steps help, it’s possible your iPhone or iPad has a hardware problem - maybe with its logic board, USB controller, or internal storage. In this case:
- Visit an Apple Store or an Apple Authorized Service Provider.
- You can also contact Apple Support online or by phone for further guidance.
Or, get fast and cost-effective iPhone repair service at your nearest iFixScreens store. Our expert technicians use high-quality OEM parts, offer same-day repairs, and provide reliable diagnostics to resolve restore errors and other device issues quickly.
Final Thoughts:
Restore Error Code 1109 is usually caused by connection issues, outdated software, corrupted backups, or software glitches. Start with simple fixes like checking your USB cable, updating your computer, and restarting devices. Use DFU Mode or Recovery Mode if necessary. Professional assistance may be required if the issue persists.
The majority of users can successfully resolve this issue and restore their iPhone or iPad by carefully following each step.
FAQ's
Q: How to fix error code 1109 on iPhone?
A: Typically, network or software Error 1109 is the result of issues during restoration. Try restarting your iPhone and computer, updating iTunes or Finder, switching to a different USB port or cable, and ensuring that your internet connection is stable. If the problem continues, restore using Recovery Mode.
Q: How do I fix the error when restoring my iPhone?
A: Make sure you’re using the latest version of iTunes or Finder. Restart both devices, check your internet, and try a different USB cable. If it still fails, put the iPhone into Recovery Mode and try restoring again.
Q: What is error code 1100 on iPhone restore?
A: Error 1100 often means there’s a problem with the device firmware or restore file. Try using a different computer, update iTunes or Finder, or restore using DFU mode.
Q: What to do when iPhone is stuck in recovery mode error?
A: Connect your iPhone to your computer, open iTunes or Finder, and try restoring it. If that fails, put the iPhone into DFU mode (a deeper restore mode) and restore it from there. This usually fixes stuck recovery issues.