The IPSW file is essential for updating or restoring Apple devices. But did you know it can also be used to bypass iCloud activation locks? It's true. Customizing IPSW files allows users to unlock their devices if they can't access the previous owner's iCloud credentials. While this method can be effective, it requires a solid understanding of the technical steps involved. That's why we've created this guide to walk you through the details of the custom IPSW iCloud unlock process, along with an alternative iCloud bypass option for you.

- Part 1. What Is IPSW iCloud Unlock?
- Part 2. How to Download iCloud Unlock Custom IPSW
- Part 3. How to Custom IPSW to Bypass iCloud on PC
- Part 4. Best Alternative Way to IPSW iCloud Bypass
- Part 5. Conclusion
Part 1. What Is IPSW iCloud Unlock?
The IPSW (iPhone Software) file is a firmware package used to update or restore Apple devices. When it comes to iCloud unlocking, customizing the IPSW file can be a way to bypass the iCloud activation lock. This is typically used by those who can't access the previous owner's iCloud credentials or have forgotten their Apple ID password but still want to use the device. By editing the IPSW and perform a restore, icloud lock can be bypassed.
1.1 Technical Specification of IPSW iCloud Bypass
Before you dive into the specific steps for using the IPSW bypass, check the technical specification first to ensure compatibility and success.
Specification | IPSW iCloud Bypass |
Unlocking Type | IPSW File iCloud Unlock |
Supported Device | All iPhone, iPad, and iPod |
Supported iOS | Up to iOS 18.6.2 |
Platform | Mac & Windows PC |
Data Loss |
Yes |
Difficulty |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Note:
The IPSW iCloud bypass method does not work on devices in Lost Mode and often results in data loss.
1.2 Common Questions about IPSW Unlock iCloud
The IPSW Unlock iCloud process confuses many users. Here, we provide clear answers to those common questions you may also want to know.
Q1. Is using IPSW to remove iCloud safe?
A: Using IPSW to bypass iCloud can be risky, as improper modifications or using incorrect files can damage the device. Additionally, downloading IPSW from unreliable sources can expose your device to security threats. For a safer unlocking option, consider MagFone Activation Unlocker, a specialized tool available on the official website.
Q2. Can I custom IPSW to bypass iCloud lock on iPhone 5/6/7/8?
A: Yes, you can custom IPSW files for older models such as iPhone 5, 6, 7, and 8. However, the success of the bypass depends on the iOS version and the specific method you're using to modify the IPSW file. Please make sure to use the correct IPSW version for your device.
Q3. Can an unsigned IPSW file bypass iCloud Activation Lock?
A: No, an unsigned IPSW file cannot bypass iCloud Activation Lock. Apple's iCloud Activation Lock is tied to your device's hardware and Apple ID stored on Apple's servers. Even if you install an unsigned or custom IPSW firmware, your device will still check Apple's servers during activation. If the Apple ID isn't removed or verified, the lock remains.
Part 2. How to Download iCloud Unlock Custom IPSW
To begin the process of bypassing the iCloud lock through IPSW, you need to download the customized IPSW file for your device first. This file contains the necessary firmware that will be modified to remove the iCloud lock. You can download a signed IPSW file from the IPSW downloads site, but these files aren't modified for iCloud bypass. If you can't find customized IPSW files, check sources like Unlocks Hub on YouTube to purchase the correct ones.
The Potential Risks for Unsigned IPSW Files:
- Compatibility: Apple won't validate unsigned IPSW, which could prevent the bypass from working.
- Security Risks: Unofficial IPSW may contain malware or cause corruption.
- Bypass Failure: Unsigned IPSW may cause the device to be unresponsive and lead to unsuccessful iCloud unlock.

Part 3. How to Custom IPSW to Bypass iCloud on PC
After downloading the correct IPSW file for your device, you'll need to modify its contents. If you've gotten the IPSW file for replacement, you can follow the steps below to use this custom IPSW file for iCloud bypass.
For Windows Users:
Step 1. Download the IPSW file to your computer and change its extension from .ipsw to .zip.
Step 2. Extract the zip archive. You will see several files, including ones with a .dmg extension that need decryption.
Step 3. You can acquire the decryption key for the DMG files via The iPhone Wiki.
Step 4. Identify the largest .dmg file and move it to your desktop for easier access.
Step 5. Open your decryption tool and use the Root Filesystem key to decrypt the .dmg file.
Step 6. After decryption, the folder will appear on your desktop. Open it and go to the Applications folder.
Step 7. Locate the setup.app file and remove it. Then, save the changes in the decrypted folder.
Step 8. After you have done that, encrypt the folder again using the same decryption key.
Step 9. Give the encrypted file the original .dmg filename and substitute it for the original.
Step 10. Compress the modified files and change the extension back to .ipsw. Your custom IPSW is now ready.
For Mac Users (32-bit systems only):
Step 1. Get the right IPSW firmware on a Mac for your iCloud-locked device.
Step 2. Change the file extension to .zip and extract the contents.
Step 3. After extraction, you will see three .dmg files in the extracted contents.
Step 4. Find the largest .dmg file and place it on your desktop; it is encrypted.
Step 5. Retrieve the firmware key from The iPhone Wiki and then launch iDecrypt on Mac to extract the .dmg file's contents.
Step 6. When a warning appears, click OK, choose an output folder, and input the RootFilesystem key.
Step 7. Click Decrypt DMG and wait until the process finishes. A success notification will confirm decryption.
Step 8. Open the decrypted folder, go to the Applications folder, and delete the Setup file.
Step 9. Exit the folder, right-click the decrypted file, and select Eject.
Step 10. Delete the original .dmg and rename the decrypted file to match it.
Step 11. Move the decrypted file back to the extracted IPSW folder.
Step 12. Convert the folder back into a .ipsw file. Your custom IPSW is ready to use.
Part 4. Best Alternative Way to IPSW iCloud Bypass
Is there an easier iCloud unlock method? Certainly. For those who can't find an IPSW file for replacement or have failed to unlock their device using the IPSW method, we recommend MagFone Activation Unlocker.
Unlike IPSW customization, which requires advanced knowledge, MagFone Activation Unlocker only requires three simple steps to bypass iCloud activation locks on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. The on-screen simple instructions guide you through the entire process. With just a few clicks, you can remove the iCloud lock from your device. If a time-saving and efficient iCloud unlock solution is what you pursue, just try MagFone for free.

MagFone Activation Unlocker
Bypass iCloud Activation Lock on iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch without the original Apple ID or password.
Step 1 Connect Your Device and Run MagFone

Launch MagFone Activation Unlocker on your computer, select Remove iCloud Activation Lock on the main screen, and click Start. Read the disclaimer carefully and agree to proceed. Then, connect your device via a USB cable.
Step 2 Jailbreak Your iPhone on Windows PC or Mac

Before bypassing the iCloud lock, you'll need to jailbreak your device. The process differs slightly depending on whether you're using a Windows PC or a Mac. Follow the instructions on the screen or Note below to proceed with the jailbreaking process for your system.
Step 3 Complete the iCloud Lock Removal Process

Once your device is jailbroken, confirm its information, including the model and serial number. Then, proceed with removing the iCloud activation lock. Keep your device connected until the process is complete, and you'll see a success message confirming the lock has been removed.
Part 5. Conclusion
Customizing an IPSW file to bypass the iCloud lock is a viable method, but it's not without its challenges. With the need for technical expertise and careful attention to detail, it might not be the easiest solution for everyone. For a faster and simpler alternative, tools like MagFone Activation Unlocker offer a more user-friendly approach to unlocking iCloud activation.