How to Fix iTunes Sync Error-54 on iPhone, iPad or iPod? Solution

“iPhone won’t sync. An unknown error occurred (-54). ”

How to Fix iTunes Sync Error-54? Do you get this error message when you try to sync your device with iTunes? Do not worry! Not only you, but many other Apple users have the same experience and can fix errors in just a few simple steps. Here, we’ll guide you on how to fix iTunes sync error, but before we get started, let’s get to know about sync error 54.

What is iTunes Sync Error 54?

iTunes sync error – 54 is a permission error on your computer or device. It usually happens when you try to sync your iPhone, iPad, or iPod using iTunes, after your device has been updated to a new operating system. It appears when you don’t authorize your computer or don’t have access/permission to move/modify data. It can also happen due to the following reasons.

  • If your iTunes version is outdated.
  • The iTunes software is not downloaded correctly. It could be that the download is corrupted or the installation is incomplete.
  • iTunes-related program files have been deleted/corrupted.
  • Windows system file corruption due to virus/malware infection or any human error.
  • The iTunes file is corrupted due to a failed iOS update.
  • This can also happen if you updated the iOS version on your iPad and iPhone.

How to Fix iTunes Sync Error?

Follow these steps to fix sync error 54 easily:

  • First, click OK at the bottom of the message and let your device fix the error on its own.
  • If it hasn’t already been resolved, restart your computer or iOS device. You’ll need to have the latest version of iTunes and the latest operating system installed on your device.

If the error message persists, you should try other methods to resolve it.

Ways to fix error 54

How to Fix iTunes Sync Error-54? If the above tips don’t work, you should try these tips.

  • Save all your media files in your iTunes library: Your media files may be scattered across multiple locations. If that’s the case, try saving them in your iTunes media folder.
  • Check for syncing issues with third-party security software: Third-party software, including your antivirus, may limit the syncing process on your device. You should change the settings of your security software and then try to sync your device.
  • Sync a small amount of content: You can try syncing a small amount of data at a time and then keep doing it until the error occurs again. This will help you figure out which files or contents may be causing the error.
  • Delete and redownload content: If the issue is caused by anything in the iTunes Store, delete and redownload everything. You can also redownload content directly to your iPhone, iPad, or iPad touch to make things easier.
  • Delete and re-import content: If the content causing the error is not from iTunes, delete it and re-import it from the original source. For example, delete a song and then reimport it from a CD.
  • Delete PDF files from the syncing process: This error can also occur if you’re trying to transfer iTunes purchases from iOS to your computer. Especially if you are trying to transfer an iBook from an iOS device to your computer. Therefore, you should avoid doing this and transferring such files via email.

These are some tips to fix iTunes sync error 54. We recommend that you first try the two-step process mentioned earlier to fix the error. If that doesn’t work for you, you should move on to other hacks.