[Full Guide] How to Downgrade to Unsigned IPSW in 2024

Apple frequently updates its firmware to fix issues and introduce new features. However, these updates can sometimes come with bugs and glitches that make using the updated iOS frustrating.

One solution is to restore to an earlier stable iOS version. The challenge is that Apple stops signing older iOS versions after releasing new ones, meaning they're no longer supported on your devices.

So, what if the iOS version you want to restore to is no longer signed by Apple? Can you still downgrade to an unsigned IPSW? Yes, you can. In this article, we’ll explain what unsigned IPSW is and show you how to install unsigned IPSW on your iPhone.

What Is Unsigned IPSW?

IPSW is the file extension for Apple's iPhone and iPad operating system. An unsigned IPSW refers to a firmware file that Apple has not digitally signed. This digital signature acts as a verification to ensure that only officially approved firmware versions can be installed on iOS devices. When Apple stops signing a firmware version, users cannot install or restore their devices to that version using iTunes or Finder.

Due to security concerns, Apple periodically unsigns iOS versions and encourages users to use the new features offered by updated iOS versions. However, new iOS updates can sometimes negatively impact device performance and functionality. Downgrading to a previous stable iOS version is a common solution to resolve firmware update errors and issues.

Is It Possible to Restore Unsigned IPSW?

Yes, but you can't downgrade to an unsigned IPSW through official methods provided by Apple. When Apple releases a new iOS version, they typically stop signing older versions to ensure users have access to the latest software. This means iTunes and other official Apple tools will only allow you to install the latest signed iOS version for your device.

However, there are alternative methods and tools developed by third-party developers that allow users to bypass these restrictions and install older, unsigned versions of iOS. If you are looking for ways to downgrade to an unsigned IPSW, keep reading.

How to Install Unsigned IPSW with SHSH Blobs

In this section, we’ll take you step by step on how to install an unsigned IPSW with SHSH blobs. Following these steps will enable you to downgrade to that unsigned iOS that you want.

Requirements:

• The unsigned iOS firmware that you want to restore to. You can get it from Apple’s official firmware download page.
• Exact SHSH blob file for the unsigned iOS firmware you want to restore. If you saved the blob file using TSS Saver while the iOS version was still being signed, you can download it from the Retrieve section of TSS Saver.
• Download FutureRestore, a tool designed for restoring iOS versions. Go to the GitHub page to download it.

If you have everything set, then follow these steps to restore unsigned IPSW with the SHSH blob file.

• First, place the unsigned iOS firmware, the SHSH blob file, and the unarchived FutureRestore file into a single folder on your computer.

• Next, open the Command Line on a Mac or Terminal on a Windows PC. Drag and drop the unzipped FutureRestore file into the Command Line or Terminal window and type -t.
• Then, drag and drop the SHSH blob file into the same window. Instead of typing -t, use --latest-sep --latest-baseband if your device has a SIM card or --latest-no-baseband if it does not.
• Finally, drag and drop the unsigned iOS firmware into the window. Double-check your entries and press Enter to start the downgrade process. Wait for the downgrade process to complete.

Note

Before starting the downgrade, make a complete backup of your iPhone to either iTunes or iCloud. This backup will save all your files and data, including photos, contacts, messages, and app data. You can easily restore everything after the downgrade is complete.

Bonus: Downgrade iOS with FoneGeek iOS System Recovery

While using the above method can help you downgrade iOS, they are still risky and very complicated. You can avoid going through all that technical process by using an easy solution like FoneGeek iOS System Recovery. It’s pretty simple to use - no running command lines or handling IPSW files. It takes just a few clicks to downgrade or upgrade the iOS system on your iPhone, and there’s no data loss.

Key Features of FoneGeek iOS System Recovery:

• Requires only a few clicks to downgrade iOS versions without iTunes or jailbreak.
• Free to put iPhone into recovery mode or to exit from it (Mac only).
• Can solve 200+ iOS system problems with no risk of data loss.
• Works on all iPhone models (iPhone 7 to iPhone 16) and all iOS versions (iOS 7 to iOS 18).
• User-friendly interface that requires no technical knowledge to understand and use.

How to restore to an earlier IPSW with FoneGeek iOS System Recovery

Step 1. Get the FoneGeek iOS System Recovery program. Once downloaded, install and launch it on your computer. Select Standard Mode.

Step 2. Use a USB cable to connect your iPhone to the computer, then click Next. Your device will now be detected by the program.

Step 3. Select the iOS version you want to downgrade to (lower iOS to your current version) and click the Download button.

Step 4. After the download is complete, click Fix Now to start the downgrade. The program will install the older iOS version and let you know when it's done.

FAQs about Downgrading Unsigned IPSW

Can I downgrade to unsigned iOS with jailbreak?

Jailbreaking your iPhone or iPad gives you access to system files and lets you customize settings and apps beyond what stock iOS allows. However, jailbreaking alone won't let you install unsigned iOS versions without SHSH blobs.

What happens if you install unsigned iOS?

Installing an unsigned iOS version carries several risks, including security vulnerabilities, potential data theft, and malware exposure. Additionally, you may face issues with apps that may not work properly due to the outdated iOS version.

Can you downgrade to unsigned iOS without blobs?

No, you can't downgrade iOS without using blob files. To downgrade your iPhone's iOS version, you'll need to restore your device and install the firmware file using a tool.

Conclusion

Now that you should know how to restore and install unsigned IPSW, you can proceed to downgrade your iPhone to your preferred and bug-free iOS version. If you want to downgrade iOS in the easiest and safest way, FoneGeek iOS System Recovery is your best choice. It can quickly downgrade iPhone to any signed iOS version without any data loss.