How to Install Config Files on iOS
Learn how to install Config Files onto your iOS device.
We highly recommend using the configuration wizard we provide in your Tech Lockdown account dashboard. It will walk you through the installation process.
Video Instructions
This video showcases several examples of installing the config file on a Supervised iPhone:
- Using a Mac computer to display a QR code, which is then scanned by the Supervised iPhone.
- Downloading the config file on the Mac computer and air dropping it to the supervised iPhone.
- Logging into Tech Lockdown on the Supervised iPhone and directly downloading the config.
How to Add a Config File to an iPhone or iPad
On the Tech Lockdown dashboard, go to Tools, and select the iPhone / iPad option.
Step 1: Download the Config File
When you click on the download button for a Config File, you will have the option to download the file or scan a QR code.
(A) Downloading the Config File to your iPhone with a QR Code
The easiest way to download the Config file to your iPhone is by scanning the QR code.
You will get a message telling you that a Config File is being downloaded.
You should get a message saying that a profile has been downloaded.
Proceed to install the Config File.
(B) Other Ways Downloading the Config File to your iPhone
If you're unable to scan a QR code, you still have the option to download and install the file manually.
Here are some of the other ways you can install a Config File:
- Download the Config File on your iPhone: Sign into the Tech Lockdown dashboard using your iPhone and download the file directly.
- Airdrop the Config File to your iPhone: Download the file to your Mac computer, then Airdrop the Config file to your iPhone.
- Send the Config File via Email: Download the file on your Windows device, then email it to yourself.
You'll know that you download was successful if you see the confirmation message below (click on close to exit):
Proceed to install the Config File.
Step 2: Install the Config File
You will see a list of currently installed config files, including the one you just downloaded.
Enforcing a Config File
With Supervised Config Presets, App Allowlists, and App Blocklists, you have the option to disable the ability to uninstall those Config Files.
This is still technically reversible, but it requires significant effort and time.
While using the customization wizard, you should see an option called "Uninstall Prevented". When enabled, it disables your iPhone's ability to delete that Config File.
This is enabled by default, but you can choose to disable it by toggling off the switch.
You can disable the option to download a removable Config File by locking your profile .
Create a self-destructing Config File
By default, Config files that you've added to your supervised device will always remain active, but you can also specify a timer.
Both App Allowlists and Blocklists let you choose "How long should this allowlist/blocklist be active?". This should be set to Always, but you can change it to Temporary.
After you've selected Temporary, you can choose how many hours and minutes until the Config File deletes itself from your iPhone.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I uninstall a Config File?
Please see the guide below:
Supervised Restrictions
How to Uninstall Config Files on iOS
Learn how to uninstall config files from your iOS device.
I installed the Config File, but it's not working.
Config Files cannot be used correctly on a standard iPhone device. You will need to supervise your iPhone in order to correctly use the Config Files.
If you suspect you need help, contact us .
Why create a self-destructing Config File?
This can be a great option if you wanting to start a temporary digital fast, or need to have a focused time without distractions.
Can I install Config Files on an iPad?
If your iPad is also supervised , then you can install Config Files by following the same steps for iPhone.