What is error 4000

I've tried updating my iPhone XR, and it's saying an unknown error occurred (4000) but I can't find troubleshooting for error 4000

iPhone XR

Posted on Apr 28, 2021 5:32 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Apr 28, 2021 5:45 PM

Error 4000 is an undocumented error code (at least publicly undocumented). It means that the connection between the phone and iTunes was interrupted in the middle of a sync or update activity. In the past this might have been caused by a flakey USB port, an antivirus or a firewall. However, there is a new cause of this error that is the result of a bug in iTunes for Windows that requires the phone not be locked during the update. I think this has been finally fixed in the latest iTunes update, so try getting that from https://itunes.com/. If not first check your antivirus and firewall (temporarily disable them), but if that doesn’t fix it there are three workarounds for the bug:


  • Update over the air, by going to Settings/General/Software Update
  • Downgrade iTunes to version 12.8 if you can find a copy - try https://apple.com/itunes
  • Temporarily disable the screen lock passcode on the phone before updating using iTunes on Windows


Note that this error should only be a problem for updates; if you are restoring iOS rather than updating it should not occur.

1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Apr 28, 2021 5:45 PM in response to DixieLeeB

Error 4000 is an undocumented error code (at least publicly undocumented). It means that the connection between the phone and iTunes was interrupted in the middle of a sync or update activity. In the past this might have been caused by a flakey USB port, an antivirus or a firewall. However, there is a new cause of this error that is the result of a bug in iTunes for Windows that requires the phone not be locked during the update. I think this has been finally fixed in the latest iTunes update, so try getting that from https://itunes.com/. If not first check your antivirus and firewall (temporarily disable them), but if that doesn’t fix it there are three workarounds for the bug:


  • Update over the air, by going to Settings/General/Software Update
  • Downgrade iTunes to version 12.8 if you can find a copy - try https://apple.com/itunes
  • Temporarily disable the screen lock passcode on the phone before updating using iTunes on Windows


Note that this error should only be a problem for updates; if you are restoring iOS rather than updating it should not occur.

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

What is error 4000

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.