How to Fix iPhone Unavailable? Full Guide in 2025

Many users have experienced seeing messages like “iPhone Unavailable”, “Security Lockout iPhone”, or the older “iPhone is Disabled”. These alerts usually appear after entering the wrong passcode multiple times, often accompanied by warnings such as “iPhone is disabled, try again in 1 hour.”

If you are locked out of iPhone, it can feel alarming—but don’t worry. There are effective solutions to regain access and get your device working again. 

Part 1. Why Does “iPhone Unavailable” Appear?

When you see the “iPhone Unavailable” message, it usually means you’ve entered the wrong passcode too many times. This is part of Apple’s built-in security mechanism designed to protect your device from unauthorized access. Instead of letting someone endlessly guess your passcode, the iPhone gradually increases the lockout time, and eventually, it may require you to erase or reset the device.

1. How Many Attempts to Unlock iPhone?

Apple allows a limited number of passcode attempts before locking your device. After several incorrect tries, your iPhone will first delay the next attempt (for example, 1 minute, 5 minutes, or longer). If you keep entering the wrong passcode, it will eventually show “iPhone Unavailable” or “Security Lockout.”

For a detailed breakdown of the exact number of attempts and what happens afterward, check out this guide: How Many Attempts to Unlock iPhone.

2. Is “Erase Data” Enabled?

Apple also provides an additional security option called Erase Data. When this feature is turned on, your iPhone will automatically erase all data and reset to factory settings after 10 failed passcode attempts.

To enable this option:

1. Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode (or Touch ID & Passcode)
2. Enter your passcode
3. Scroll down and toggle Erase Data on

This is especially useful if you store sensitive information and want to prevent unauthorized access.

Part 2. Identify the Cause of Wrong Passcode Entry

Before fixing the “iPhone Unavailable” error, it’s important to first identify why the wrong passcode was entered. Different causes may require different solutions.

Case 1: Forgot Passcode

It’s quite common to forget your iPhone passcode, especially if you haven’t used it in a while.

Tip 1: If you completely forgot your passcode, follow this guide: Forgot iPhone Passcode.

Tip 2: If your screen shows “iPhone is disabled, try again in 1 hour”, don’t keep entering random numbers. Instead, check this solution: iPhone Disabled Try Again in 1 Hour.

Stay calm and avoid multiple failed attempts, as this will only extend the lockout. For users who see iPhone Unavailable No Timer, here’s the step-by-step guide: iPhone Unavailable No Timer.

Case 2: Screen Passcode Not Working

Sometimes, your iPhone passcode may stop working even if you’re entering the correct one. This usually happens due to system glitches or app conflicts.

Reason 1: Temporary file corruption

One of the most common reasons is a temporary system error. In this case, simply restart your iPhone, and the issue should be resolved.

Reason 2: Third-party lock screen apps

Another possible cause is a faulty third-party app interfering with your device’s passcode system. To fix this, uninstall the problematic app and try again.

If restarting doesn’t solve the issue, you may need to reset your iPhone. Make sure to back up your data first, then connect your device to a computer and perform a reset to remove the lock screen app completely.

For more possible causes and step-by-step solutions, check the full guide here: iPhone Passcode Not Working

Part 3. Solutions for “iPhone Unavailable” Based on Different Scenarios

When you encounter the “iPhone Unavailable” screen, the right solution depends on whether Find My iPhone is enabled or not. Here’s a breakdown of the most effective methods. For a general overview, you can also check this full guide: How to Unlock Disabled iPhone.

Scenario 1: Find My iPhone is OFF

If Find My iPhone is off, the alternative is to use iTunes or Finder on your phone to try and reset the device.

1. iTunes or Finder Can Recognize the Connected iPhone

If Find My iPhone is disabled and your computer recognizes the device, you can use iTunes (on Windows or older macOS) or Finder (on macOS Catalina and later) to restore it.

Steps to restore iPhone via iTunes/Finder: 

Step 1: Connect your phone to your computer using a USB cable.

Step 2: Launch iTunes (Windows/macOS Mojave or earlier) or Finder (macOS Catalina or later).  

Step 3: If you have synced the iPhone with iTunes before, it will show up on the top left as a recognised device. Click on it, and then Summary. (In Finder, the detected device will appear in the left sidebar.)

Step 4: Back up the device by clicking ‘Back Up Now.’ On Finder, click "Back up all of the data on your iPhone to this Mac” and then ‘Back Up Now.’

Step 5: Click on the Restore iPhone button and then ‘Restore’ again. This will unlock your device.

Tip: If you don’t have access to a computer, or prefer not to use one, check this guide: iPhone Disabled Bypass Without Computer.

2. iTunes or Finder Cannot Recognize the iPhone

Sometimes iTunes or Finder won’t detect your iPhone. This can happen due to outdated software, faulty USB cables, or system-level issues.

If this happens, read this guide first: My iPhone Is Disabled and Won’t Connect to iTunes.

How to fix it with Passixer iPhone Unlocker:

Step 1 Download and Launch Passixer iPhone Unlocker

First, download and install Passixer iPhone Unlocker on your computer. Open the software and choose the Wipe Passcode option from the main screen.

Step 2 Connect Your iPhone or iPad

Use an official Apple USB cable to connect your iPhone or iPad to the computer. Once the program detects your device, proceed to the next step.

Step 3 Check Device Information & Download Firmware

Passixer will display your device details automatically. Make sure the model and version shown are correct. Then click Start to download the required firmware file.

Step 4 Confirm and Unlock

After the firmware download is complete, click Next. You’ll be asked to confirm by typing 0000 in the field, then press Unlock.

Step 5 Wipe Passcode Successfully

When it’s finished, a message will appear saying “Wipe passcode successfully.” Your iPhone or iPad is now unlocked and ready to be set up as new.

Scenario 2: If Find My iPhone is enabled

If Find My iPhone is enabled on your device, then there are two ways you can unlock your phone. The first involves a third-party app, while the other method doesn't, but is a bit more tedious.

a. Easy method that works on all iOS versions

The most straightforward way is to use Passixer iPhone Unlocker.

Why choose this tool? 

1. Very easy to use, no technical knowledge needed.
2. Saves time and is much faster than other methods to bypass the iPhone passcode.
3. Highly compatible with iOS, supports versions up to iOS 26.
4. Very high success rate when it comes to bypassing the lock screen.
5. In case of any problems, there is a technical support team ready to help you out with your specific issue.

Since the steps are the same as above, please refer back to the detailed operation guide in Scenario 1

b. Manual methods for different iOS versions

Based on the version of iOS your iPhone is running, follow one of the two methods mentioned below to try and unlock your iPhone.

For iOS versions 17 and later:

Step 1: On the lock screen, tap “Forgot Passcode?”

Step 2. On the Security Lockout screen, tap “Start iPhone Reset” or “Start iPad Reset.”

Full guide here: How to Reset a Disabled iPhone.

Step 3: Enter the password for your Apple account.

Step 4: Tap “Erase iPhone / iPad” to reset the phone. This step will erase all data and settings on the device.

Step 5: Set up the device again as per your requirements after it has been reset and create a new passcode.

For iOS 15.2 – iOS 16

To reset a phone running iOS 15.2 to iOS 16, the process is relatively straightforward.

Step 1: Ensure the device is connected to Wi-Fi or cellular data.

Step 2: Tap “Erase iPhone / iPad” after tapping the Erase Device option.

Step 3: Enter your Apple account ID and password.

Step 4: Erase the device and reset the passcode. Now you can use the device as per your requirements again.

Part 4. How to Unlock an Unavailable iPhone Without Data Loss

In most cases, unlocking an “iPhone Unavailable” screen will erase all your data. However, there are a few situations where you can regain access without losing everything. Below are the possible methods. For a complete walkthrough, check this detailed guide: iPhone Disabled Bypass Without Losing Data.

Method 1: Change Passcode Within 72 Hours (iOS 17+)

If your iPhone is running iOS 17 or later and you still remember the old passcode, Apple gives you a 72-hour window to reset it without erasing data. 

Steps to reset passcode within 72 hours:

Step 1: Incorrectly enter the password five times till you get the iPhone Unavailable message, and then tap ‘Forgot Password?’

Step 2: Tap the Enter Previous Passcode option and enter the passcode you remember.

Step 3: Now, enter a new passcode to protect your iPhone and remember it for future use.

This method is the easiest way to keep your data safe, but it only works if you act within 72 hours.

Method 2: Restore from Backup

If you previously backed up your device using iCloud or iTunes/Finder, you can first erase your iPhone and then restore the data.

Steps to restore from backup: 

Step 1. Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable.

Step 2. Open Finder or iTunes:

1. On a Mac running macOS Catalina or later, open Finder.
2. On a Windows PC or a Mac running an older macOS version, open iTunes.

Step 3. Select your iPhone in the Finder or iTunes window.

Step 4. Click "Restore Backup".

Step 5. Choose the backup you want to restore from the list and click "Restore".

Step 6. Follow any on-screen prompts to finish the restore process.

Method 3: Special device conditions

Some very old iPhone models may be unlocked by advanced forensic tools without wiping data. However, compatibility is extremely limited and depends on the device model, iOS version, encryption status, and hardware condition. Treat this as a low-probability option, and if your data is highly valuable, consult a professional data recovery service rather than relying on unverified software.

Method 4: Use iPhone Data Recovery Software

If your iPhone is still detectable by a computer, you can try extracting important files before erasing it.

Approach: Scan the device, recover photos, contacts, messages, and then proceed with unlocking.

Tool example: Eassiy iPhone Data Recovery is one consumer-level option often recommended for data extraction. Always check compatibility, read user reviews, and test the free/demo version first.

Part 5: iPhone Unavailable After a Failed Software Update or Restore

Sometimes, instead of completing smoothly, an iOS update or restore may fail and leave your iPhone showing “iPhone Unavailable” or stuck on a recovery screen. The main reasons include:

1. Interrupted iOS update – for example, the battery runs out mid-update, the Wi-Fi connection is unstable, or the USB cable disconnects.
2. Failed restore in Recovery Mode – when the process is incomplete or corrupted.
3. Jailbreak or unofficial firmware – these can damage the iOS system and cause booting errors.

Regardless of the cause, the most effective way to fix it is to reinstall the official iOS system.

General Solution: Reinstall iOS via iTunes or Finder

The universal fix for system corruption is to reinstall iOS using iTunes (on Windows or macOS Mojave and earlier) or Finder (on macOS Catalina and later). This process can:

1. Repair corrupted iOS system files.
2. Clear temporary glitches from an interrupted update.
3. Restore the iPhone to working condition.

Depending on how your update or restore failed, you’ll need to enter either Recovery Mode or DFU Mode before reinstalling iOS.

Case 1: Interrupted update (most common) → Use Recovery Mode

Here is an in-depth look at the different ways you should enter recovery mode on your phone if your iOS update was interrupted for any reason:

1. iPhone 8 or later: Press Volume Up → Volume Down → press and hold the Side button until the recovery screen appears.
2. iPhone 7 series: Press and hold the Power button + Volume Down button together.
3. iPhone 6s or earlier: Press and hold the Home button + Power button together.

Case 2: Recovery Mode not working → Use DFU Mode

If Recovery Mode doesn’t work or your iPhone gets stuck again, you’ll need DFU (Device Firmware Update) Mode, which is deeper than Recovery Mode.

1. iPhone 8 or later: Press Volume Up, then Volume Down, then hold the Side button until the screen goes black. Release it. Then press and hold Side + Volume Down together. After 5 seconds, release the Side button but keep holding Volume Down for another 5 seconds.
2. iPhone 7 series: Hold Power + Volume Down for 10 seconds, then release Power but keep holding Volume Down.
3. iPhone 6s or earlier: Hold Power + Home for 10 seconds, then release Power but keep holding Home.

If the screen stays black but iTunes/Finder detects your device, your iPhone is successfully in DFU Mode.

Case 3: Jailbreak or Unofficial Firmware Issues → Use DFU Mode + IPSW Restore

If the iPhone was previously jailbroken or running unofficial firmware, a normal restore may not fix the issue. Instead, you should reinstall a clean official iOS version using an IPSW file: 

The steps to solve this issue remain the same for most iPhone versions.

Step 1: Download the latest iOS IPSW firmware for your exact iPhone model from Apple’s official website.

Step 2: Put the iPhone into DFU Mode. Refer to the steps above for your specific model.

Step 3: In iTunes/Finder, hold Shift (Windows) or Option (Mac) → click Restore iPhone → select the IPSW file.

Part 6: iPhone Unavailable Due to Account & Management Restrictions

Not all “iPhone Unavailable” messages are caused by failed updates or passcode errors. Sometimes, the problem lies in account or management restrictions—such as Screen Time settings, Apple ID Activation Lock, or Mobile Device Management (MDM) profiles. Below we explain common scenarios and how to fix them.

Scenario 1. Screen Time Restrictions

Apple’s Screen Time and parental control features can block changes to accounts or certain system settings. In some cases, users mistake the Screen Time passcode for the lock screen passcode, which may also lead to an iPhone Unavailable error.

Case 1: Forgot Screen Time Passcode

If you’ve forgotten your screen time passcode, there are a couple of ways you can try to retrieve it.

Tip 1:  If you forgot your Screen Time passcode, try resetting it by entering your correct Apple ID credentials in Settings.

Tip 2: If you can’t remember it at all, you may need a professional unlocking tool to remove Screen Time restrictions. See this guide: Forgot iPhone lock screen password

Case 2: Want to bypass iCloud restrictions directly

There are two main ways that you can bypass iCloud restrictions to take back control of your phone. Here they are:

Solution 1: Restore your iPhone via iTunes or Finder and set it up as new. Step-by-step instructions: How to reset iPhone from lock screen

Solution 2: If your goal is just to remove the lock screen entirely, you can do it directly in Settings. See tutorial: How to turn off lock screen on iPhone.

Scenario 2. Apple ID Activation Lock (Find My iPhone Enabled)

A very common issue among second-hand iPhone buyers is Activation Lock. If the previous owner did not sign out of iCloud or turn off Find My iPhone, the device becomes stuck on the Apple ID login screen.

Case 1: You Know the Previous Owner

The best solution is to contact the previous owner and ask them to remove the iPhone from their iCloud account. Here’s a related guide: how to remove Apple ID from iPhone.

Case 2: You Cannot Contact the Previous Owner

However, things become a bit more complicated if you cannot contact the previous owner to remove the lock. There are two different approaches you can try in this scenario:

Method 1: If you have a valid proof of purchase, contact Apple Support. Useful resources: Sign out of Apple ID without password, Disable Find My iPhone without password

Method 2: If you have no proof of purchase, then you will have to rely on third-party unlocking applications. And if you’re looking for a reliable unlocker, you can’t go wrong with Passixer iPhone Unlocker.

Step 1 Install & Launch Passixer

Install the Passixer on your Windows PC or Mac, then open it. From the main interface, choose Bypass iCloud Activation Lock.

Step 2 Connect Your iPhone or iPad

Use a reliable USB cable to connect your iPhone or iPad to the computer. Wait until Passixer detects the device successfully.

Step 3 Jailbreak the Device

Follow the on-screen instructions to jailbreak your iOS device. This step is necessary for the bypass to work.

Step 4 Start Bypass

After the jailbreak is done, click Next. Passixer will automatically start bypassing the iCloud Activation Lock. The process usually takes just a few minutes.

Scenario 3. MDM Lock (Mobile Device Management Configuration)

Many company-issued or school-issued iPhones come with MDM profiles. If the device is locked, supervised, or set to “lost mode” by the administrator, you cannot use it normally.

Solutions:

1. If the device belongs to a business or school, the correct way is to contact the IT administrator and request MDM removal. Guide: Bypass remote management on iPhone without computer

2. If the iPhone has been transferred to you but is still under MDM supervision, you will need a professional MDM bypass tool.

How to remove MDM with Passixer iPhone Unlocker:

Step 1 Launch Passixer & Select Remove MDM

Launch Passixer iPhone Unlocker on your Windows PC or Mac. From the main screen, select Remove MDM.

Step 2 Click Start Removing

Then click Start Removing under the Disabled section.

Step 3 Confirm the Operation

To confirm the operation, type 0000 and click Remove MDM.

Step 4 Enter Recovery Mode

Use a reliable USB cable to connect your device to the computer running Passixer. Follow the on-screen guide to put your iPhone or iPad into Recovery Mode so that the software can proceed.

Step 5 Download Firmware & Remove MDM

Set the correct device information for your iPhone/iPad and click Start to download the required firmware package. Once the firmware is successfully installed: Click Device Activated > Got it in the software. When your iPhone/iPad shows the “Hello” screen, complete the device activation. Your device will restart automatically—this indicates that the MDM profile has been successfully removed.

By addressing Screen Time, Apple ID, and MDM restrictions separately, you can quickly identify why your iPhone shows “Unavailable” and apply the most suitable fix.

by Asher Chief Content Editor and QA Specialist, Handy Unlocker Advisor

Part 7: Fixing iPhone Unavailable Caused by Network or Activation Issues

Sometimes your iPhone shows “iPhone Unavailable” not because of a passcode or system error, but due to network or activation problems. These issues usually occur when the device cannot connect properly to Apple’s servers or when the SIM card is restricted. Let’s look at the two most common causes and how to fix them.

1. DNS or VPN Interference

If you’ve configured a custom DNS or enabled a VPN/proxy on your iPhone, it may block Apple’s activation servers. Some users also attempt the so-called DNS bypass activation lock trick, but this is only a temporary workaround and not a reliable fix. For details, see: DNS Bypass Activation Lock.

Case 1: Fix DNS or VPN Interference

To restore proper activation:

1. Go to Settings > Wi-Fi, tap the (i) icon next to your network.

2. Delete any custom DNS entries and switch back to Automatic.

3. Go to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management, and turn off any VPN or proxy settings.

4. Restart your iPhone and try activation again.

More details here: iCloud DNS Bypass Guide.

2. SIM Card or Carrier Restrictions

Another common reason for activation failure is a SIM card issue. If the SIM is damaged, inactive, or locked to a specific carrier, your iPhone may show “SIM Not Supported” or remain Unavailable during setup.

Case 2: Fix SIM or Carrier Restrictions 

Step 1: Check if your iPhone is unlocked

Insert a different SIM card to see if your iPhone accepts it. If it doesn’t, your device may be carrier-locked.

Full tutorial: How to check if iPhone is unlocked without SIM card.

Step 2: Contact your carrier for unlock

If your device is locked, contact your mobile carrier (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, Sprint, etc.) and request an unlock. Each carrier has its own policies.

See complete guide: How to unlock iPhone carrier

Step 3: Handle “SIM Not Supported” error

If you see a “SIM Not Supported” message during activation, follow the on-screen instructions or use advanced bypass methods.

Detailed solution: SIM Not Supported iPhone Bypass.

By fixing DNS/VPN interference and resolving SIM or carrier restrictions, you can restore proper activation and eliminate the “iPhone Unavailable” error caused by network issues.

Part 8: iPhone Unavailable Due to Hardware-Related Issues

So far, we’ve looked at software errors, account restrictions, and network problems that can cause the “iPhone Unavailable” message. But sometimes, the root cause lies in the hardware itself. If your iPhone is physically incompatible or damaged, it may fail to activate or let you enter your passcode, leading to the unavailable screen.

Cause 1: Model or Region Incompatibility

If you purchased an iPhone from another country or region, it may not support the local carrier network bands. While the device itself works fine, it cannot connect properly to the carrier, resulting in failed activation and eventually showing “iPhone Unavailable.”

Solution: Check Model Compatibility

1. Go to Settings > General > About and note down your iPhone model number.

2. Compare it with Apple’s official cellular band support page to confirm if your model supports your carrier’s frequencies.

3. If your device is incompatible, your options are limited:

1. Use the iPhone in a supported region.
2. Replace it with a model designed for your local carrier’s bands.

Cause 2: Physical Damage

Hardware issues can also trigger the unavailable screen. Examples include:

1. Broken or unresponsive touchscreen.
2. Water damage.
3. Loose flex cables or motherboard issues.
4. Battery failure or charging problems.

If you cannot enter your passcode because the screen is damaged, the iPhone may eventually lock you out.

Method 1: Use an External Keyboard or Accessibility Features

1. Connect a Bluetooth keyboard or a wired keyboard via OTG adapter.
2. Use keyboard shortcuts to enter your passcode.
3. Once inside, back up your data immediately in case the hardware deteriorates further.

Method 2: Use a Professional Unlocking Tool

If the screen or touch input is unusable, a tool like Passixer iPhone Unlocker with its Wipe Passcode feature can help you unlock the device and regain access.

Method 3: Contact Apple or an Authorized Repair Center

For severe damage such as water exposure, loose flex cables, or motherboard failure, only professional repair can resolve the issue. After repair, you can proceed with software-based unlocking if needed.

For more solutions—including using Voice Control, AppleCare+, or iCloud—see: How to unlock iPhone with broken screen.

Part 9: iPhone Unavailable due to common misoperations

Not all “iPhone Unavailable” situations are caused by hardware or software failures. Sometimes, simple misoperations in daily use may also trigger the lock screen. Here are three common cases you should know:

Case 1: Accidentally Triggering SOS Emergency Mode

If you press the side button multiple times in quick succession, the iPhone may enter SOS Emergency Mode. This puts the device into a temporary security state, which can sometimes appear as a lock screen.

What to do:

Step 1: Avoid repeatedly or incorrectly pressing the side button.

Step 2: If your iPhone is locked due to SOS mode, simply wait for the system to recover.

Step 3: For a safe and effective guide, check: How to bypass iPhone lock screen without emergency call

Case 2: Entering Recovery Mode Incorrectly

When trying to enter Recovery Mode, pressing the wrong button sequence or timing it incorrectly may cause the device not to enter the expected mode. As a result, the computer won’t recognize the iPhone. 

What to do:

Step 1: Confirm your iPhone model (iPhone 8 and later, iPhone 7, or iPhone 6s and earlier).

Step 2: Follow the official button sequence carefully for your model.

Step 3: If it still fails, try another USB cable or port and repeat the process.

Step 4: Learn more step-by-step solutions here: Unlock iPhone with iTunes.

Case 3: Children or Others Entering the Wrong Passcode

Another common scenario is when children play with your iPhone, or someone else repeatedly tries to unlock it with the wrong passcode. After too many failed attempts, the iPhone automatically shows “iPhone Unavailable.”

What to do:

Step 1: Do not casually share your passcode with others.

Step 2: Enable Face ID or Touch ID to reduce reliance on passcode entry.

Step 3: If “Unavailable” has already appeared, use the earlier methods (iTunes, iCloud, or Passixer iPhone Unlocker) to restore access.

Step 4: For additional prevention tips, see: How kids bypass Screen Time passcode.

Misoperations are often overlooked, but they can easily lock you out of your device. By being cautious and knowing how to respond, you can reduce the risk of triggering “iPhone Unavailable” in daily use.

Conclusion

The “iPhone Unavailable” or “Security Lockout” screen can appear for many reasons, including:

Warm Reminder

1. Always try Apple’s official methods first, such as iTunes/Finder restore, iCloud erase, or the Forgot Passcode option.
2. If official solutions fail, a professional unlocking tool like Passixer iPhone Unlocker offers a safe and reliable way to remove passcode, bypass MDM, and fix iPhone Unavailable.
3. Stay away from so-called free bypass tricks or online hacks. Most are unreliable and may lead to privacy leaks or permanent device damage.

By understanding the real causes and applying the right solutions, you can quickly get your iPhone back to normal without unnecessary risks.