Easy Ways to Install Custom IPSW Without iTunes in 2025

Part 1：Preparation Before You Start to Restore IPSW without iTunes

Before jumping into the installation, make sure you’re set up for a smooth process. A few quick checks can help prevent failure and protect your data:

• Download the correct IPSW for your device and iOS version.
• Back up your iPhone—flashing firmware may erase everything.
• Know your IPSW’s status: signed IPSWs are easier to install; unsigned ones may require extra steps.
• Be ready to use Recovery or DFU mode—most tools need it to flash IPSW successfully.

Don’t worry if some of this sounds unfamiliar—our step-by-step methods below will walk you through everything, no technical skills required.

Part 2：How to Install Custom IPSW without iTunes to iPhone/iPad

#1 Safely & Easily Install Custom IPSW without iTunes with Tenorshare ReiBoot [Best Recommended]

Restoring custom IPSW to iPhone, iPad with iTunes may risk the data loss, and the whole process is pretty complicated. Even worse, if you misoperated, the device will possibly get bricked.

To easily and safely restore custom IPSW without iTunes, here we will introduce an alternate way — using a powerful Tenorshare ReiBoot custom IPSW restore tool, which stands out for its ability to restore/fix/downgrade operating system without no data loss in a couple of clicks.

ReiBoot is fully compatible with the latest iOS 26. Download to get latest ipsw file now:

Now follow the steps below and learn how to install ipsw without iTunes free:

• To restore custom IPSW file, please click 'Start' to use iOS System Repair feature.

  

• Honest, both options can be used to restore custom IPSW file, now takes 'Standard Repair' and confirm the button.

  

• After entering the following screen, you can restore IPSW file. So, click on Browse button to import the previously stored custom IPSW files. Click "Download" button to start importing the firmware package to your device.

  

• After all these, you can click "Start Standard Repair" to start updating your device or repair your operating system.

  

• The whole process won't cost too much time, please wait patiently. When it done, check if your device is restored with custom IPSW.

  

#2 Install Custom IPSW without iTunes Using Apple Configurator for Mac

Apple Configurator is a powerful tool designed for macOS users to easily manage and restore iOS devices. It allows you to install custom IPSW files without relying on iTunes, providing a straightforward way to update or restore your iPhone or iPad. Let's see how to restore iphone firmware firmware without iTunes by Apple Configurator:

• Download and Install: Get Apple Configurator from the Mac App Store and install it on your Mac.
• Connect Your Device: Plug your iPhone into your Mac using a USB cable.
• Drag and Drop: Drag the IPSW file you downloaded directly onto your device’s icon within Apple Configurator.
• Select Action: Choose whether to update or restore your device using the selected IPSW file.

Note:

You may encounter the error "iOS cannot be restored on this iPhone" when using Apple Configurator. This often happens due to compatibility issues, such as using an unsigned IPSW or mismatched device firmware.

If this problem cannot be resolved, we recommend using Tenorshare ReiBoot, which offers a more flexible and user-friendly way to restore or downgrade iOS without data loss.

#3 Install Custom IPSW Without iTunes by 3utools

3uTools is a popular free Windows tool that provides an all-in-one solution for managing iOS devices. It supports flashing custom IPSW files without using iTunes, making it a convenient choice for users who want to install or downgrade iOS firmware easily.

• Download and Install: Download 3uTools from the official website and install it on your Windows PC.
• Connect Your Device: Use a USB cable to connect your iPhone or iPad to your computer.
• Open Flash & JB Section: Launch 3uTools and navigate to the "Flash & JB" tab.
• Import IPSW File: Click "Easy Flash," then click the gear icon to manually select and import your downloaded custom IPSW file.
• Start Flashing: Choose whether to retain user data or perform a clean install, then click "Flash" to begin the installation process.

• Wait for Completion: Do not disconnect your device until the flashing process finishes successfully.

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