When your Mac or PC downloads an iPhone or iPad update, it saves it as an .ipsw file. On a Mac, look in ~/Library/iTunes/iPhone Software Updates (or iPad Software Updates). In Finder, press Shift + Command + G, paste that path, and press Return. On Windows with iTunes, it’s in %AppData%\Apple Computer\iTunes\iPhone Software Updates. If you use the Apple Devices app or can’t find the folder, search your PC for *.ipsw in File Explorer.
IPSW file locations at a glance
| Computer | Folder |
|---|---|
| Mac (Finder or iTunes) | ~/Library/iTunes/iPhone Software Updates |
| Mac, iPad updates | ~/Library/iTunes/iPad Software Updates |
| Windows (iTunes) | C:\Users\username\AppData\Roaming\Apple Computer\iTunes\iPhone Software Updates |
| Windows (Apple Devices app or Microsoft Store iTunes) | Search File Explorer for *.ipsw |
How to find IPSW files on a Mac
- Open Finder.
- Press Shift + Command + G (or choose Go > Go to Folder).
- Type ~/Library/iTunes/iPhone Software Updates and press Return.
The Library folder is hidden by default, which is why the Go to Folder shortcut is the easiest way in. If the folder is empty, your Mac may have deleted the file after the update finished.
How to find IPSW files on Windows
- Press Windows + R, type %appdata%, and press Enter.
- Open Apple Computer > iTunes > iPhone Software Updates.
Using the Apple Devices app or the Microsoft Store version of iTunes? The files may be stored elsewhere. Open File Explorer, click This PC, type *.ipsw in the search box, and press Enter. Right-click a result and choose Open file location.
How to use an IPSW file to update or restore
- Connect your iPhone or iPad to your computer and open Finder (Mac) or iTunes or Apple Devices (Windows).
- Select your device.
- Hold Option (Mac) or Shift (Windows) and click Check for Update or Restore iPhone.
- Choose the .ipsw file and follow the prompts.
Apple only lets you install iOS versions it’s still “signing.” You can’t use an old IPSW to downgrade once Apple stops signing it. Restoring erases the device, so back it up first.
Can I delete IPSW files?
Yes. After an update or restore, the file isn’t needed, and each one can take up several gigabytes. Delete it from the folder above to free up space. Your computer will download a fresh copy next time if needed.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I download IPSW files?
The safest source is your computer: Finder, iTunes, or Apple Devices downloads the correct file directly from Apple when you update or restore.
Why is the iPhone Software Updates folder empty?
The update may have been deleted automatically after it finished, or it was downloaded directly on the device over Wi-Fi instead of through your computer.
Does the Mac keep IPSW files for Mac updates here too?
No. This folder is for iPhone and iPad software. Mac updates are handled separately by macOS.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.