IPSW File Documentation

Overview

Feature Value
File Extension .ipsw
Full Form iPod and iPhone Software Update File
Developed by Apple Inc.
Type of File Firmware Update File
Primary Use Software updates for iOS devices
File Structure Encrypted ZIP archive
Encryption AES encryption
MIME Type application/x-itunes-ipsw
Compatibility iOS devices (iPhone, iPad, iPod touch)
Operating Systems Windows, macOS
Default Location (macOS) ~/Library/iTunes/iPhone Software Updates
Default Location (Windows) C:Users[username]AppDataRoamingApple ComputeriTunesiPhone Software Updates
Manual Installation Method Using iTunes or Finder (macOS Catalina or later)
Component Files Contains restore images, firmware, baseband firmware, etc.
URL Scheme ipsw://
Archive Contents DMG files, PLIST files, IM4P files
DMG Encryption Specific DMG files within IPSW are encrypted
Usage in Jailbreaking Can be modified and used for custom firmware installs
Official Source Downloadable via iTunes or direct from Apple's servers
File Signature N/A (Encrypted Content)
Update Process Typically requires device to be in DFU or Recovery mode