[Completed Guide] How to Fix iTunes Error 2006

When the restore/update process suddenly stops with an iTunes restore error 2006 showing up, what we can do to solve it? This guide can give you answer directly. Keep reading to fix iTunes error 2006.

Demi by Demi Updated November 21, 2023
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“Error code 2006”. How do I restore my phone?

I was updating my iPhone today when it said an unknown error occurred (2006). I cannot restore or update my phone now. What do I do?

- Question from Apple Community

iTunes serves as the backbone for managing and restoring iOS devices, providing users with seamless interactions with their iPhones, iPads, and iPods. However, like any software, iTunes can sometimes throw error codes that may seem perplexing. One such error is iTunes Error 2006.

itunes error 2006

If you're encountering this error while attempting a restore or update, you're not alone. In this article, we'll dive into the potential reasons behind its occurrence, and provide effective solutions to help you resolve it and get back to enjoying your iOS device.

Why you see iTunes error 2006?

Before looking for troubleshoots for the 2006 error in iTunes, you may firstly need to know what the error code 2006 is and possible causes behind the issue.

What is error code 2006 in iTunes?
Error code 2006 in iTunes is a common issue that arises during the restore or update process. When this error occurs, it prevents your device from being successfully restored or updated, leaving you stuck with a non-functional device.

Causes behind iTunes restore error 2006
Several factors could contribute to iTunes Error 2006:
⛔ USB Connection Issues: Poor or unstable USB connections between your device and computer can lead to communication errors during the restore process.
⛔ Outdated iTunes Version: Running an outdated version of iTunes might result in compatibility issues and trigger error code 2006.
⛔ Corrupted Software or Firmware: If the software or firmware on your iOS device is corrupted, it can lead to errors during the restore process.
⛔ Security Software Interference: Sometimes, security software or firewalls on your computer might interfere with the restore process and cause error 2006.
⛔ Hardware Issues: In rare cases, hardware issues such as faulty cables or malfunctioning USB ports can lead to this error.

5 solutions to fix iTunes Error 2006

Let's explore effective solutions to address iTunes Error 2006 and successfully complete the restore or update process. Just try them one after another, until your issue gets fixed.

1# Check or try another USB cable

If you're encountering errors while trying to connect your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch to your computer, it's important to ensure that the USB connection is stable. By eliminating some possible factors, you can determine whether the problem lies with the device, cable, port, or computer. Here’s how to check your USB connection, USB cable, and USB port.

lightning to usb cable

2# Update iTunes to the latest version

The occurrence of the iTunes error 2006 might be attributed to the utilization of an outdated version of the iTunes software on your computer. Such an outdated iteration could potentially lack the capability to effectively discern the modifications implemented by Apple, including those on your iOS device—particularly when you've applied the most recent iOS update. If you find yourself in this scenario, rectifying this error is a straightforward task involving the updating of your iTunes software.

To update iTunes, open iTunes > Click Help from the toolbar > Tap Check for Updates > If there is a new version available, update it.

check for updates

3# Restart your iPhone and computer

For the various actions performed on our personal computers to successfully transpire, a series of background processes are set into motion. These encompass a range of activities, such as registering keystrokes, tracking mouse movements, and more. Should any of these integral processes fail to function as expected, it can serve as a plausible cause for the emergence of the iTunes error 2006. In such instances, initiating a basic reboot stands as a viable solution to rectify this situation.

Proceed by powering down both your computer and iOS device, and subsequently power them back on. This straightforward action is often sufficient to alleviate the error 2006 issue within the iTunes framework.

4# Disable security software

To fix iTunes error 2006, consider temporarily disabling your computer's antivirus or security software before updating or restoring iOS devices using iTunes.

After deactivating this software, continue with the iTunes update or restoration. Upon process completion, you can reactivate your antivirus or security software.

5# Disable the iTunes helper (MobileDeviceHelper)

Though exceedingly uncommon, the iTunes Helper might be accountable for the error message. This background process recognizes device connections and activates iTunes accordingly. To address error 2006 possibly caused by this, temporarily disable iTunes Helper before attempting device restoration. To disable the iTunes Helper, follow the steps below:

Step 1. On your Windows PC, Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc keys to access the Task Manager.

Step 2. Locate MobileDeviceHelper, right-click on it and select End task.

disable itunes helper

Summary

Experiencing iTunes Error 2006 can be frustrating, but with the solutions provided in this article, you have the tools to address the issue effectively. By understanding the potential causes, you can troubleshoot and fix iTunes error 2006 systematically. These ways are also suitable to fix iTunes error 5000/37. Follow the step-by-step fixes outlined here to successfully complete the restore or update process for your iOS device.

Remember that technology can occasionally present challenges, but with a bit of technical know-how and patience, you can overcome these challenges and continue enjoying your iOS device hassle-free.

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