IPSW File Extension

What is IPSW file?

IPSW is an archive file compressed with ZIP. IPSW archive contain update package for iTunes. IPSW files can be used to restore previous version of iTunes if the update installation process fails or is incomplete. This type of file is not required for iTunes to work properly. IPSW files can be safely deleted as they will be re-downloaded if needed.

Contents of an IPSW archive

IPSW archives typically contain multiple encrypted DMG files, which can be decrypted using dedicated system tools. Users can update their iTunes, iPod, or iPad software using a desktop or laptop computer and downloaded IPSW files.

Programs which support IPSW file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open IPSW files divided into 2 categories according to system platform supported. IPSW files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 07/29/2023

How to open file with IPSW extension?

Being unable to open files with IPSW extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with IPSW files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Install iTunes software

Problems with opening and working with IPSW files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with IPSW files being present on your machine. The solution to this problem is very simple. Download iTunes and install it on your device. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. The safest method of downloading iTunes installed is by going to developer’s website (Apple, Inc.) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update iTunes to the latest version

If the problems with opening IPSW files still occur even after installing iTunes, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of iTunes is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. This can be one of the causes why IPSW files are not compatible with iTunes. The most recent version of iTunes is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open IPSW files to iTunes

If you have the latest version of iTunes installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage IPSW on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Clicking the IPSW with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the iTunes installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open IPSW files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected IPSW file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with IPSW extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Verify that the IPSW is not faulty

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the IPSW file in question. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Verify that the IPSW in question is not infected with a computer virus

Should it happed that the IPSW is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the IPSW file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Ensure the file with IPSW extension is complete and error-free

If the IPSW file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. When downloading the file with IPSW extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open iTunes

If the systems has insufficient resources to open IPSW files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with IPod And IPhone Software Update Format files. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle IPSW files.

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