iOS 11.2.1 Update Released with HomeKit Security Fix [IPSW Download Links]

Dec 13, 2017 - 6 Comments

iOS 11.2.1 software update

Apple has released iOS 11.2.1 for compatible iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch models. The small point release update includes an important security fix for a HomeKit vulnerability which could allow for unauthorized access to HomeKit devices and accessories.

Additionally, tvOS 11.2.1 is available as an update for Apple TV users with the same HomeKit security fix.


iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, and Apple TV users who use HomeKit devices should update to iOS 11.2.1 sooner than later to patch the security bug, whereas people who do not have or use any HomeKit devices will find less urgency to install the software update. It’s unclear if iOS 11.2.1 and tvOS 11.2.1 include any other bug fixes or security enhancements aside from the HomeKit patch, but the release notes accompanying the download do not mention anything else.

Wait, What is HomeKit?

Some of you are probably reading this and wondering what HomeKit is in the first place. For some quick background, HomeKit devices include various internet connected home devices, ranging from smart lightbulbs, thermostats, fans, cameras, heating and cooling, outlets, speakers, amongst many other accessories and devices. HomeKit equipped devices can be interacted with from an iOS device via Siri or via the “Home” app.

For example, HomeKit capable smart lightbulbs can be turned on remotely via the Home app or with Siri by issuing a voice command like “hey Siri, turn on the bedroom lights”. HomeKit devices can also be placed onto a schedule, for example you could configure a HomeKit thermostat to automatically warm a house at 4pm or turn lights off at 11pm.

Homekit on iPhone

Thus, if you use HomeKit or plan on using HomeKit, you would want to update to iOS 11.2.1 so that can continue to use the HomeKit devices without a potential security issue.

Download & Update to iOS 11.2.1

The easiest way to download and install iOS 11.2.1 is through the OTA on-device update mechanism. Always backup an iPhone or iPad before installing any iOS software update.

  1. Open the “Settings” app in iOS
  2. Go to “General”
  3. Choose “Software Update” and select “Download and Install” when iOS 11.2.1 is shown as available

iOS 11.2.1 software update

The OTA update is around 70mb, and like all other iOS software updates will require a reboot to complete installation of.

Users can also choose to downloadd the update through iTunes, or install the update using IPSW firmware files below.

iOS 11.2.1 IPSW Firmware Download Links

Users can choose to directly download firmware IPSW files from Apple servers using the links below:

Apple has been fairly aggressive with software updates lately, iOS 11.2 was released a little over a week ago for iPhone and iPad, and macOS 10.13.2 for Mac was released recently as well.

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Posted by: Paul Horowitz in iPad, iPhone, News

6 Comments

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  1. VitriolH2SO4 says:

    As usual. Thank you dude! Faster than Cupertino =)

  2. Peter says:

    just updated my iPhone SE 16GB to 11.2.1 and now the screen is frozen?
    tried a hard reboot (done it several times) but just won’t do anything?
    any ideas?

  3. Steven Bukosky says:

    Does HomeKit use the Zwave protocol? I’m vested in Nexia which uses it and will recognize most other Zwave devices.

  4. BP says:

    With the barrage of iOS updates, when will the bluetooth disconnection bug be addressed?

    This is a significant issue that is causing many users to desert Apple. There has been little acknowledgement of this problem.

    • Dun says:

      I use an Apple Pencil, air pods, and an Apple Watch. No disconnections whatsoever.

    • INWDC says:

      I’m more concerned by the sometimes spotty wifi connection. The issue is only with my Apple products. This issue is years in the making and with some updates it works fine only to be derailed with subsequent updates. Is anyone on Android? I am considering giving it a try since Apple is in a serious funk at the moment.

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