How to Go Back to iOS 17/18 without Data Loss? [Newest]

Part 1. Can I Go Back To iOS 17 From iOS 18?

Yes, it’s technically possible to go back to iOS 17, but it’s not as straightforward as upgrading. Apple enforces strict downgrade policies, and they only allow users to install older iOS versions while those versions are still being digitally signed.

While it is possible to go back to iOS 17, doing so comes with a few important caveats you should consider. One of the biggest risks is data loss—especially if you haven’t created a full backup before downgrading. Any photos, messages, app data, or settings added after the update to iOS 18 or 26 could be permanently lost during the rollback process.

You can simply go back to iOS 17 from iOS 18. Let's examine the differences between iOS 18 and iOS 17.

Part 2. iOS 18 Vs. iOS 17

Apple updates iOS every year, adding new features and improvements. iOS 17 introduced things like Continuity Camera, StandBy, and a reimagined Journal app. It made daily tasks easier and faster.

With iOS 18, Apple focuses on more AI integration. So, it enhances personalization and makes Siri smarter. Health tracking gets a boost with better sleep and stress management features.

Augmented reality sees advancements, too, providing more immersive experiences. Privacy and security are further strengthened, offering better data protection. Performance improvements include smoother operations and longer battery life.

The design also gets subtle updates for a fresh look. In gaming, iOS 18 promises improved graphics, advanced haptics, and cross-platform play. Thus enhancing the overall experience for users.

Part 3. What You Need To Do Before Downgrading iOS Version?

Have you installed iOS 18 Beta and wish to revert to iOS 17? know that downgrading comes with risks.

If issues occur, you could lose all your data, such as videos, photos, contacts, messages, and app data. In the worst case, you might not be able to power on your phone at all after the downgrade attempt.

So, it’s essential to back up your iPhone first. There are three methods to back up your iPhone, with or without using a computer. Select one of these methods and follow the steps to keep your data safe.

This precaution ensures that you won’t lose important information. Also, your device can be restored to its previous state if something goes wrong.

3-1. Back-Up from iCloud

Follow the steps below to back up from iCloud:

1. Connect your iPhone to Wi-Fi.
2. Go to Settings and tap your name.
3. Select iCloud and tap iCloud Backup.
4. Make sure iCloud Backup is turned on.
5. To start a manual backup, click Back Up Now.

Your iPhone will back up daily when it's connected to power, locked, and on Wi-Fi.

3-2. Back Up with Mac

Below are the steps to back up with Mac.

1. Open Finder on your Mac and connect your iPhone using a USB cable.
2. If prompted, trust the Mac on your iPhone.
3. In Finder, select your iPhone from the sidebar.
4. Under the "Backups" section, click "Back Up Now.
5. Once the backup is complete, you can see the date and time of the last successful backup.

1-3. Back Up with PC

Here are the steps to back up with a PC.

1. Connect your iDevice to your PC via a USB cable.
2. If prompted, verify trust on your iPhone and enter your passcode to allow access to your data.
3. Install and open the Apple Devices app on your PC. It should automatically detect your iPhone.
4. In the app, locate your iPhone.
5. Click the "Back Up Now" button on the General page to start the backup process.

Now that you know what to do before returning to iOS 17. Next, let's discuss how to go back to iOS 17 from 18.

Part 4. How to Get Back to iOS 17?

If you've decided that iOS 18 Beta isn't working for you—whether due to bugs, performance issues, or personal preference—there’s good news: you can still go back to iOS 17 using a few proven methods.

4-1. Downgrade iOS 18 Beta to 17 with iTunes

If you've installed iOS 18 beta but want to return to iOS 17, you can use iTunes on your computer. This process involves putting your iPhone in recovery mode and restoring it with the iOS 17 firmware file.

This method is not as simple as downgrading through iPhone settings, but iTunes allows you to downgrade between public iOS versions like iOS 18 and iOS 17.

Follow these steps to downgrade iOS 18 beta to iOS 17 using iTunes:

1. Go to the iOS download page from Apple on your computer. Download the iOS 17 IPSW firmware file for your iPhone model.

1. In iTunes, click "Restore iPhone" while holding the Shift key. Keep holding it until a window opens to select a firmware file.

1. Choose the iOS 17 IPSW file you downloaded.

1. Confirm that you want to restore your iPhone with iOS 17.
2. iTunes will downgrade your iPhone from iOS 18 beta to iOS 17. This may take a while.
3. Once done, set up your iPhone as new or restore it from an iOS 17 backup.

That's all about this method. If you don't want to use iTunes, let's move to the next method on how to go back from iOS 18 to iOS 17.

4-2. Downgrade iOS 18 Beta to iOS 17 by Settings

Use your iPhone's settings to downgrade from iOS 18 beta to iOS 17. Remove the beta profile from your iPhone. Then, check for the current signed iOS version and download it.

Step 1: Open Settings and go to General > VPN & Device Management.

Step 2: Locate the iOS 18 beta profile and tap Remove Profile.

Step 3: Follow the prompts to accomplish the process and then restart your iPhone.

Step 4: Go to Settings > General > Software Update and select Download and Install for iOS 17.5.1.

We have covered everything about downgrading iOS 18 to iOS 17 by settings. However, if this method doesn't work for you, move to the next one.

4-3. Downgrade iOS 18 Beta to 17 using BetaProfiles (Without Computer)

How do you go back to iOS 17 on an iPhone with a computer? Many users have asked about downgrading without a computer, and here is a method for that.

This only works if your iPhone is running iOS 16.4 or higher. Let's see how to downgrade iOS 18 beta to iOS 17 without a computer.

Step 1: Open Safari on your iPhone and go to the BetaProfiles website. Find and download the iOS 17.5.1 profile.

Step 2: Open Settings and tap Profile Downloaded. Install the iOS 17.5.1 profile.

Step 3: Go to Settings > General > Software Update.

Step 4: When you see the option, tap Download and Install to revert to iOS 17 from iOS 18 beta without a computer.

That's it! Following these steps, you can effortlessly go back to iOS 17.

However, if you don't want to download and install iOS 17 BetaProfile, jump to the next method.

4-4. Downgrade iOS 18 to iOS 17 through Recovery Mode

If you prefer not to use a third-party tool, you can use iTunes to go back to iOS 17. The steps can be a bit complex, but we have a guide for you. Follow along with us!

Step 1: Turn Off Find My

To use this method, turn off Find My before downgrading. This feature is key for Activation Lock, which needs your Apple ID and password.

• Go to Settings > Your Name > Find My.
• Tap Find My iPhone and toggle it off.

If the option is grayed out, deactivate "Stolen Device Protection" first.

Step 2: Put Your iDevice in Recovery Mode

Enter recovery mode to start the downgrade.

• Quickly press and let go of the Volume Up button.
• Quickly press and let go of the Volume Down button.
• Next, press and hold the power button until the recovery mode screen appears with an icon of a cable and a computer.

Step 3: Restore Your iPhone to iOS 17

In recovery mode, use your computer to restore iOS.

• A message will appear, allowing you to update or restore your iPhone.
• Click Restore. Confirm by clicking Restore and Update.

Now, let's explore another method for downgrading.

4-5. Overall Best: Downgrade to iOS 17 In One Click using Dr.Fone System Repair (iOS)

Feeling frustrated with the latest iOS 18 or iOS 26 Beta update? You're not alone. Many users are looking for a way to go back to iOS 17—a version known for its stability and consistent performance. Whether you’re dealing with app crashes, battery issues, or simply missing the smooth experience of iOS 17, Dr.Fone - System Repair (iOS) offers the perfect one-click solution.

Dr.Fone - System Repair (iOS)

Downgrade to iOS 17 In One Click

• Upgrade and Downgrade iOS without iTunes at all.
• Only fix your iOS to normal, no data loss at all.
• Fix various iOS system issues stuck in recovery mode, white Apple logo, black screen, looping on start, etc.
• Work for all iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch, running on all iOS versions

Available on: Windows Mac

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Steps to Downgrade to iOS 17 Using Dr.Fone:

Follow the steps below to go back to iOS 17 using Wondershare Dr.Fone.

Step 1 Select downgrade iOS from the two options.

Step 2 Back up your iDevice if needed. Next, connect your iDevice to a computer with a USB cable.

Step 3 Now, select the iOS firmware to download. It will start downloading.

Step 4 Click Repair Now to redirect toward installing the iOS firmware on your iDevice.

Step 5 iOS has been successfully downgraded for your iPhone. Click Done to execute the entire process.

You have seen how simple it is to go back to iOS 17 using Dr.Fone System Repair iOS. Now, let’s conclude our discussion.

The Best Solution for iOS 26 Issues

Tips: Dr.Fone - System Repair now enables zero-data-loss solutions for iOS 26 crashes (boot loops/black screen/failed updates) and one-click downgrades to signed versions (e.g. iOS 18.5), completing in 10 minutes. Supports all iPhone models, bypassing iTunes factory reset risks. Downgrades require open Apple signing windows (real-time tool verification). Pre-export critical data when reverting from iOS 26.

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Final Words!

Downgrading to iOS 17 is straightforward if you follow the right steps. First, back up your iPhone to prevent data loss. You can use iCloud, iTunes, or a PC for this. Once your data is safe, choose a downgrade method. You might use iTunes, your iPhone's settings, or a tool like Dr.Fone.

Each method helps you quickly go back to iOS 17. Remember, downgrading means losing some new features but also bringing back stability and familiarity. iOS 17 is loved for its reliability and user-friendly features. If you miss these, don’t hesitate to return. Enjoy a smoother experience with the version you know and love. Start today and go back to iOS 17 using Dr.Fone - System Repair (iOS)!

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