Overview

• Start by using an Apple‑certified cable, plug directly into a computer’s USB port, avoid hubs, and try different ports or another computer to rule out weak connections.
• Update Finder or iTunes and your operating system, reinstall Apple device drivers if needed, and consider disabling the iTunes Helper process on startup.
• Prefer the Update option first to reinstall iOS without erasing data, then move to recovery mode or DFU only if needed, noting that DFU will wipe the device.
• Check networks and security tools by confirming Apple’s System Status, turning off VPNs, proxies, antivirus, or firewalls temporarily, and restarting routers for a stable link to Apple’s servers.
• Recognize that select codes like 4045 can signal hardware faults such as a loose front camera or corroded contacts, so contact Apple Support if step‑by‑step fixes fail.