You might want to connect your iPhone to your computer a number of times. Whether you want to use iTunes to create a complete backup or only copy specific files from your mobile device to your computer, you will need to use a USB cable to connect your device to your computer. Most of the time, this connection functions perfectly. On occasion, though, you might find that your iPhone is not detected by your PC.

Why will not my iPhone be recognized by my computer? There are several explanations for this. There might be a problem with the USB connection. Another possibility is that your computer may not have the correct drivers installed. Fortunately, there are several solutions available to you if your iPhone refuses to connect to your computer. The following guide describes some of the most effective ways to fix computers not recognizing iPhone issues.

How to Fix Computer Does Not Recognize iPhone Issue? 

There are various reasons why your Windows computer does not recognize your iPhone. So, here are some of the most effective and simplest ways through which you can fix this annoying issue. Let’s dive in.

1. Reboot Both Devices

It is a good idea to start by resetting both devices when they refuse to connect. Because the issue can be with either your Windows device or your iPhone, you should restart both. If the connection cable is already attached, unplug it before continuing. After rebooting your devices, reconnect your iPhone to your PC. 

2. Instruct Your iPhone to “Trust your computer”

You will receive a notification asking, “Trust this computer?” as soon as you connect your iPhone to your PC. Your iPhone will get a green signal indicating that the connection is secure if you hit the Trust button. Otherwise, despite the fact that your iPhone is physically linked to your computer, you will not be able to transmit data from either end. To resolve the problem, reset the location and privacy settings on your device. You may locate this setting here:

1. Go to the Settings on your phone.
2. Select General > Reset or Transfer iPhone.
3. Select “Reset.”
4. Select Reset Privacy & Location.

After that, follow the on-screen directions and input your iPhone passcode. Try restarting both devices and reconnecting your iPhone to your computer after resetting the location and privacy settings on your iPhone. To continue, tap Trust when the “Trust This Computer?” message shows up.

3. Update Your iPhones Driver

Outdated drivers may potentially be the reason why the iPhone is unable to connect to Windows. It is time to update the Apple Mobile USB Driver if the aforementioned solutions do not work. To accomplish this, connect your iPhone to your PC and launch Device Manager.

1. Extend the category for Universal Serial Bus Devices. 
2. Select the Apple Mobile Device USB Device option with a right-click. 
3. Next, select “Update driver.” 
4. After that, let Windows locate and update the driver automatically by following the on-screen directions.
5. After restarting your computer, reconnect your iPhone. 
6. If an out-of-date driver is the source of the connection problem, it will now be fixed. Otherwise, proceed with the remaining actions.

4. Disable Any VPN Services on Your Phone

You might wish to disable your iPhone’s VPN if you use it regularly. A VPN is a great way to create a secure, anonymous connection and hide your IP address. Nevertheless, there are instances in which your iPhone device with VPN activated is not recognized by your windows computer. Therefore, it is advisable to turn off your VPN and try again. Turn off your VPN connection for a while to see if your iPhone connects correctly.

5. Update or Reinstall iTunes

It is possible that your computer’s iTunes and iOS are not compatible. You may encounter problems with connectivity if one of them does not support the other. You should update both iTunes and your mobile device to rule out this possibility. You can also reinstall iTunes if the issue continues.

6. Update Your iPhone

Your iPhone may already be updated if you maintain the Automatic Updates settings enabled. However, if you want to ensure that your iPhone is constantly up to date, you can manually upgrade it.

1. Navigate to Settings on your phone. 
2. To access the general settings, tap General. 
3. Select Software Update from the General Settings menu. 
4. The message “iOS is up to date.” will appear if your iPhone has already been updated.
5. If not, you will see the iPhone’s update information along with its version and the Download and Install button directly beneath it while your phone searches for updates. 
6. After clicking this button, install the software. Your iOS will then be updated to the latest version.

Wrapping Up

Troubleshooting the issue of a windows computer not recognizing your iPhone can be frustrating, but with the right techniques, you can overcome this challenge. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can improve the connection between your iPhone and computer. Remember to stay patient and thorough in your approach, and hopefully, you’ll be able to resolve the issue and enjoy seamless connectivity between your devices once again.