If you’re trying to restore or update your iPhone 6s Plus using iTunes and suddenly hit “iTunes Error 9” — don’t panic. This error usually freezes your iPhone and stops the restore process. It’s frustrating, but fixable. Here’s everything you can try to get your iPhone working again.
What Causes iTunes Error 9?
iTunes Error 9 usually happens when the connection between your iPhone and the computer breaks or gets blocked during an update or restore. Here’s what could be causing it:
- Faulty USB cables or ports — a damaged cable or port can drop the connection.
- Network problems — if iTunes can’t reach Apple servers.
- Firewall or antivirus software — these can block iTunes’ connection to your device.
- Jailbreaking issues — a bad jailbreak attempt can brick your phone.
- Incorrect date and time settings — rare, but can interfere with server communication.
Things to Check Before Troubleshooting
- Update iTunes to the latest version.
- Double-check date and time settings on your iPhone. Set it to automatic.
- Back up your data if possible.
How to Fix iTunes Error 9 on iPhone 6s Plus
1. Disable Firewall and Antivirus Temporarily
Security software could be blocking iTunes from talking to your iPhone.
- Turn off any antivirus programs and firewalls temporarily.
- Try restoring your iPhone again.
If it works after disabling security software, adjust your firewall settings to allow iTunes connections permanently.
2. Check Your Cable and USB Ports
Loose or faulty connections are a major cause of Error 9.
- Use the original Apple USB cable.
- Try different USB ports on your computer.
- Switch computers if you can, to rule out hardware issues.
3. Force Restart Your iPhone
If your iPhone is frozen:
- Press and hold the Sleep/Wake button and Home button together.
- Keep holding both buttons until you see the Apple logo.
- Then reconnect to iTunes and try restoring again.
4. Use DFU Mode to Restore
If a regular restore isn’t working, a deeper restore using DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode might help.
- Connect your iPhone to your computer and open iTunes.
- Press and hold the Sleep/Wake button and Home button together for 8 seconds.
- Release only the Sleep/Wake button but keep holding the Home button until iTunes says it’s detected an iPhone in recovery mode.
- Follow the prompts to restore your iPhone.
Your iPhone screen should stay black if you’ve successfully entered DFU mode.
5. Try iOS Repair Tools
If iTunes still won’t cooperate, consider using a third-party iOS recovery tool.
- Apps like ReiBoot, Dr.Fone, or PhoneRescue can fix system errors without data loss.
- Download and install the tool on your computer, connect your iPhone, and follow the on-screen instructions.
6. Contact Apple Support
If nothing works, it’s time to reach out to Apple. There might be a hardware problem that needs professional repair, especially if your iPhone has had water damage or physical drops recently.