Remove Device Management iPhone – How to Fix It

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If your iPhone is controlled by Mobile Device Management (MDM), certain settings, apps, and features may be restricted. This guide explains different ways to remove device management from your iPhone and regain full control.

Check If Your iPhone Has Device Management

MDM is usually installed by workplaces, schools, or organizations. To check if your iPhone is managed:

  1. Open Settings
  2. Go to General > VPN & Device Management
  3. If an MDM profile is listed, your iPhone is managed

If the MDM profile restricts device settings, you may need permission from the organization to remove it.

Remove Device Management from Settings

If you have the necessary permissions, you can manually remove MDM from your iPhone.

Steps to Remove MDM Profile
  1. Open Settings
  2. Go to General > VPN & Device Management
  3. Tap the MDM profile
  4. Select Remove Management
  5. Enter the MDM password (if required)
  6. Restart the iPhone to apply changes

If the option to remove the profile is unavailable, your iPhone is likely under strict supervision.

Remove MDM Using iTunes or Finder

If the MDM profile prevents manual removal, resetting your iPhone through iTunes or Finder may work.

Steps to Reset iPhone Using iTunes/Finder
  1. Connect your iPhone to a computer
  2. Open iTunes (Windows) or Finder (Mac)
  3. Select your device and click Restore iPhone
  4. Wait for the process to complete and set up your iPhone as new

If MDM is enforced by Apple School Manager or Apple Business Manager, the profile may reapply after resetting.

Remove MDM Using DFU Mode

If a standard reset does not work, DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode may remove the MDM profile.

Steps to Reset iPhone via DFU Mode
  1. Connect iPhone to a computer and open iTunes (Windows) or Finder (Mac)
  2. Put your iPhone into DFU mode:
    • iPhone 8 or later: Press and release Volume Up, press and release Volume Down, then hold the Side button until the screen goes black. While holding the Side button, press and hold Volume Down for 5 seconds, then release the Side button but keep holding Volume Down for another 10 seconds.
    • iPhone 7/7 Plus: Hold Volume Down + Power button for 10 seconds, then release Power but keep holding Volume Down.
    • iPhone 6s or earlier: Hold Home + Power button for 10 seconds, then release Power but keep holding Home.
  3. iTunes or Finder will detect the iPhone in DFU mode
  4. Click Restore iPhone to erase all data and settings
  5. Set up the iPhone as new

If the device is supervised, MDM may reinstall after setup.

Use Third-Party Tools to Remove MDM

Several third-party tools claim to remove MDM without a password. Some commonly used options include:

  • Tenorshare 4uKey
  • iMyFone LockWiper
  • Dr.Fone – Unlock (iOS)

These tools may work but should be used with caution, as MDM removal without authorization could violate company policies.

Prevent MDM from Reinstalling After Reset

If the iPhone is linked to Apple School Manager or Apple Business Manager, MDM may automatically reinstall after a reset. To prevent this:

  1. Contact the organization and request device removal from Apple Business Manager or School Manager
  2. Use a different Apple ID during setup to avoid linking to the MDM profile

If the device was provided by a company or school, removing MDM without permission may lead to restrictions or legal consequences.