iPhone Basics

General

Under General, you can customize many different settings that control your iPhone's security, accessibility, and overall preferences.

To set a passcode lock:

By default, the iPhone doesn't require a passcode to unlock it. However, you can set one to help protect your device. Requiring a passcode will make it considerably more difficult for someone else to access your iPhone if it's lost or stolen.

1. Tap the Settings icon on your Home screen, then tap General.
   Opening General settings
2. General settings will appear. Scroll down and tap Passcode Lock.
   Opening Passcode Lock settings
3. Tap Turn Passcode On.
4. Use the keypad to enter a four-digit passcode. (You'll need to enter it twice to confirm.)
   Choosing a passcode
5. Passcode Lock will be enabled. You'll need to enter it whenever you unlock the iPhone.
   Unlocking the iPhone with a passcode

The iPhone 5S also includes a fingerprint scanner, known as Touch ID, that you can use to unlock your iPhone. You can review this support page from Apple on Using Touch ID to learn more.

To set restrictions:

Restrictions act as parental controls. You can use this feature to set a passcode that will restrict access to certain content. While a passcode lock is used to unlock the iPhone, a restriction passcode is used to open specific apps and perform certain tasks. For example, you can restrict explicit music, limit the ability to make in-app purchases, or withhold access to important apps.

1. In General, tap Restrictions.
   Opening Restriction settings
2. Tap Enable Restrictions.
   Enabling restrictions
3. Use the keypad to enter a four-digit restrictions passcode. (You'll need to enter it twice to confirm.)
4. Restrictions will be enabled. From now on, anyone who uses your iPhone will need to enter the passcode to access restricted content.
5. Set the controls to green to allow apps to be used without restrictions. In the example below, you can use the Safari, Camera, and FaceTime apps without restrictions, but you'll need to enter the passcode to open the iTunes store, install or delete an app, make in-app purchases, or use Siri or AirDrop.
6. Scroll down to access more advanced restrictions, such as ratings for music, movies, apps, and more.
   Enabling or disabling apps and specific content

Updating your software

Software Update is where you'll download iOS updates from Apple. Updates frequently include bug fixes and other improvements designed to enhance your experience with the iPhone. If an update is available, tap Software Update, then tap the Install button.

Downloading software updates