Fix iTunes Error 3194: Step by Step Guide

iTunes Error 319 is a problem that can prevent users from updating or restoring their iPhone, iPad or iPod. Don’t panic if you encounter this error! This guide will show you how to fix iTunes Error 3194, so that you can update or restore your device with no problems.

Also Download: Top 5 Ways to Reinstall Windows 10 Without Losing Files

What is iTunes Error 319?

When iTunes is unable to communicate with Apple servers, Error 319 occurs. This is usually due to:

iTunes is outdated.
You may have problems with your hosts file.
Problems with network connection

Jailbroken devices trying to restore unauthorized.

The iPhone cannot be restored” appears, you need to restore it. Unknown error (3194) occurred Follow the steps below to fix it.

How to fix iTunes error 3194 step-by-step

Method 1: Update iTunes with the latest version

The latest Apple updates may not be compatible with an outdated version of iTunes. Update:

Windows:

Open iTunes and click Help > Check for updates.
Download and install any updates that are available.

Mac:

Updates can be found by opening the App Store.
Install the iTunes update.

Start your computer again and see if you can resolve the problem.

Check your Internet Connection Method 2

iTunes can fail to connect to Apple servers if the internet connection is weak or unstable.

Fix:

Ensure you have a reliable internet connection.
Try again after restarting your router.
If you are using a VPN temporarily disable it and try again.

Modifying the hosts file on your computer is Method 3.

The hosts file is responsible for controlling how your computer connects with Apple’s servers. iTunes may not work properly if the hosts file is misconfigured.

Windows Users:

Close iTunes

Press Windows + R, type C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts, and press Enter.
Open the hosts file in Notepad.
Find any lines that include gs.apple.com.

If you find the error, either add # to the beginning of the line (e.g. #gs.apple.com), or delete it.
Save the file, then restart your computer.

Mac Users:

Open the Terminal by clicking on Applications > Utilities.
Type:

sudo nano /etc/hosts

Enter your Mac password when prompted.
Look for a line with gs.apple.com.
Add # before it or delete it.

Press Control + X, then Y, and hit Enter to save.
Restart your Mac.

Now, try restoring your device in iTunes again.

Method 4: Use Recovery mode to Restore iPhone

If you still get the error, put your iPhone in recovery mode and restore it.

Steps for Entering Recovery Mode

Connect your iPhone with your computer, and launch iTunes.

Force restart your iPhone

iPhone 8 or newer: Press Volume Up and Volume Down then hold the Power key until you see the Recovery Mode screen.

iPhone 7/7 plus: Hold Power + Volume down until recovery mode appears.

iPhone 6s or older: Hold down the Home + Power buttons until the recovery mode appears.

iTunes will detect if your device is in Recovery Mode, and ask you whether to Update or Restore.
Restore iOS can be done by clicking Restore.

Method 5 – Use DFU Mode to perform a Deep Repair

DFU Mode, also known as Device Firmware Update (DFU), can help if Recovery Mode fails. This method completely deletes your device. It then installs the latest version of iOS.

How to enter DFU mode:

Connect your iPhone and iTunes to the computer.

You can force restart your device using the same steps you would use in Recovery Mode. However, hold down the buttons for a minimum of 10 seconds after it has gone black.
DFU Mode can be detected if your screen is black and iTunes detects the device.
Reinstall iOS with Restore iPhone.

Disable Firewalls and Security Software

Some antivirus and firewalls prevent iTunes from connecting Apple’s servers.

Fix:

Temporarily disable the firewall or antivirus.

Try restoring your device again.
If you get iTunes working, add it to your firewall exceptions.

FAQs to Fix iTunes Error 3194

What causes iTunes Error code 3194?

iTunes may not be able to communicate with Apple’s servers if the software is outdated, hosts files are misconfigured, or there are network problems.

How can I fix iTunes error code 3194 on a Mac?

If you want to restore an iPhone using iTunes, you will need a computer. However, you may try updating your iPhone through Settings >General >Software Update.

What will be deleted if I restore my iPhone?

Yes. When you restore your data via iTunes, it will erase all of the data. Backup your data before proceeding.

Can jailbreaking cause Error 3194?

Yes. Apple servers may not allow unauthorized restores to your device if it has been jailbroken.

What if neither of these methods is effective?

Apple Stores are also available to provide expert help.

Final Thoughts

Follow the steps below to fix iTunes Error 3194. Try simple fixes such as updating iTunes and checking the internet. If necessary, edit the host file, use Recovery Mode, DFU Mode, or try Recovery Mode.