By Gina Barrow, Last updated: December 20, 2019
How do I fix iTunes download error?“Download Error. Tap to retry” This message keeps popping up every time I try to buy music from iTunes Store directly to my iPhone. I was not able to download a single song I just purchased.
iTunes download error happens to almost every iOS users who are downloading their purchased songs, movies, TV series and more from the iTunes Store and it is quite a hassle when you just don’t know what this error means and what should be the process to resolve and avoid it.
Also, it's always a good idea to make sure you have the latest updates for your version of OS X and iTunes. Also, check your system date, time, and time zone. That can cause errors with the iTunes servers.
Virus or malware infection that has corrupted Windows system files or iTunes-related program files. Another program maliciously or mistakenly deleted iTunes-related files. Runtime Errors such as “Error 3253” can be caused by a variety of factors, so it is important that you troubleshoot each of the possible causes to prevent it from recurring. Learn how to solve iOS update and restore errors.
In this article, you will learn the quick fixes to apply when you encounter iTunes download error and other possible causes that may have triggered this problem.
How to fix iTunes download error
Part 1. What Does iTunes Download Error Mean?
There is no definite meaning as to why we receive iTunes download error and the only common sign is that it interrupts every download via iTunes store. This can be caused by software, hardware or any other elements that have blocked the download pathway. If you are buying music, videos, movies, and TV shows, this download error occurs and might not allow you to finish the download and worst may stop you from using the device.
Part 2. Why Does iTunes Download Error Happen?
Since it is obviously a download error, there are different possibilities as to why this iTunes download error shows up. Here are the most common scenarios:
- Internet Connection – iTunes may have lost its connection to the internet reason why it cannot finish the download.
What to Do: Make sure you are settled in a good signal location so downloads won't experience any interruptions.
- Slow Internet Speed – Slow internet speed can interrupt downloads and cause other issues.
What to do: Avoid using mobile data as much as possible to avoid too much latency. Connect to a wireless network with excellent signal strength.
- Outdated iTunes or iTunes issues – iTunes may have quit before the download was finished or could be that your iTunes is outdated.
What to Do: Update iTunes on your Mac or Windows computer before doing any activities.
- Third-Party programs- Third-party software such as anti-virus can block the connection between the iTunes to Apple’s servers.
What to do: Check if there are any firewalls enabled that may interrupt the connection. If needed refer to your security software’s settings on how to temporarily disable it.
Itunes Error Code 3253
- Hardware issues – Any cables attached between iDevice can trigger download errors as well.
What to do: Check any ports, cables and other hardware parts that may cause the download interruption.
Part 3. How to Fix iTunes Download Error?
There could be more potential iTunes error that may arise at this stage so it is better that you resolve this problem right away. Upon learning the possible causes of iTunes download error; you can simply try the following quick fixes:
- Tap to retry the download.
- Restart computer and iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch.
- Check USB cables and drivers.
- Update iTunes.
- Clear all stuck downloads.
- Use Cloud to resume download.
- Choose available downloads.
Method 1. Tap to Retry
Like the error message say, tap to retry the download. When it is attempting to download again click the pause button and then click the resume download.
Method 2. Restart computer and iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch
If attempting to retry the download fails, restart all devices to give it a refresh. Once all devices have rebooted, attempt to download again.
Method 3. Check USB cables and drivers
Make sure you are using an original USB cable that came along with the box or any original Apple USB cable. You may also need to verify if Apple Mobile Device USB cable driver is installed on your computer.
Method 4. Update iTunes
It is always recommended that whenever you do any activities with iTunes you must update it first to avoid such issues.
Method 5. Clear all Stuck Downloads
On your iPhone/iPad go the Downloads page and find the arrow down button. Gently flick (swipe) to the left to show the Delete button. Click the Delete button to clear all stuck and in-progress downloads.
Method 6. Use Cloud to Resume Download
On your iOS device, head over to iTunes Store and click ‘Purchased’. Find the ‘movie or TV shows’ you want to download and click the cloud icon on the right. The download will resume instantly.
Method 7. Choose Available Downloads
Open iTunes and connect your iOS device using a USB cable. Go to Store, scroll down and find Purchased. Click Available Downloads. Download songs/music/videos you need.
Part 4. Safely Fix iTunes Download Error with FoneDog Toolkit- iOS System Recovery
When the above-given methods to quickly fix iTunes Download Error fail then your iOS device might be experiencing some system issues. FoneDog Toolkit- iOS System Recovery is the best partner in cases like these. FoneDog Toolkit - iOS System Recovery is a program dedicated to fixing various system issues like iTunes download errors, iTunes error codes, freezing, white/black/blue/red screens, stuck on recovery mode, stuck on Apple logo, and much more. FoneDog Toolkit- iOS System Recovery only resolves and fixes issues without causing any data loss. To use this software, follow these guides:
Step 1. Launch FoneDog Toolkit- iOS System Recovery and Plugin iOS Device
Iphone Software Update Error 3253
First, you must download, install and launch FoneDog Toolkit - iOS System Recoveryon your computer. This software is compatible with both Windows and Mac to cater all users’ preferences. When the download is completed, install it by referring to its onscreen instructions. After successful installation, launch the program and go to More Tools and find System Recovery. Connect your iOS device using an original USB cable and wait until FoneDog Toolkit automatically detects your device. Click Start to continue.
Itunes Error 3253
Launch FoneDog Toolkit- iOS System Recovery--Step1
Step 2. Download Correct Firmware Package
On the next screen, you will need to enter the correct details of the iOS device. You must enter the correct make and model of the iPhone/iPad in order to download and extract the firmware package. You may refer at the back of your phone for the model number or you can go online to Apple’s website to verify it. Once you are sure of the details, click Download to continue.
Download Correct Firmware Package on a Device--Step2
Step 3. Repair On-progress
The downloading, extracting, and repairing may take a while. FoneDog Toolkit- iOS System Recovery will notify you of the progress thru the progress bar is seen on the screen. You must avoid using the device during this stage since it may interrupt the repair process and cause more issues. The entire process may take time and when it is completed, you can see that the iPhone/iPad will restart and will start up normally. This marks the final process of the repair. You may unplug your device after.
Repair Staring--Step3
FoneDog Toolkit - iOS System Recovery is the safest and most secure system recovery software that is fully compatible with all iOS devices including the latest models. A lot of iOS users have switched to FoneDog Toolkit- iOS System Recovery because they are confident that all their issues are covered and well taken care of. The next time you are caught up with iTunes download error, you know what to do.
Part 5. Video Guide: How Can We Fix iTunes Download Error
Error Code 3253- “Connection to the Server Failed or was Dropped”
Microsoft has provided its facility of Outlook for Mac users, the most recent version is Mac Outlook 2016. The Mac Outlook faces a lot of problems, one of the most common error the users face is error code 3253. This problem is related to the connection to the server. This is a common problem which the user may face on multiple platforms, but here we will discuss Outlook Mac 2016 error.
What Happens When this Outlook 2016 Mac Error Occurs?
When the users of Mac Outlook face this error code 3253, it lets the users receive emails normally but they are restricted from sending emails. On clicking the send button the emails get stored in the outbox, with a pending status. The major drawback of this error is that it appears suddenly, without any previous notification to the user.
What does this Outlook Mac 2016 Error Mean?
Error 3252 shows the failure of connection to the server which can occur due to various reasons but this lets the user to receive its emails but disables them to send out mails. This error comes with an error code 3253 along with a message “Connection to the server failed or was dropped”. The user then needs to fix this issues either themselves or by taking an expert help.
Causes that Lead to Error 3253
There are a variety of reasons which can cause this error code 3253 Outlook Mac, some of them are mentioned as follows:
- The high number of emails present in the sent box may be one of the reasons for the disconnection to the server. As a large number of email folders put an extra stress on the client-server communication.
- It may also occur due to the server settings of the incoming and outgoing server ports which must be verified and corrected. If you are using Outlook 2016 & received this error then you should have to change default port 465 to 587.
- Inaccurate installation of Outlook on clients computer can also be a reason. It can be easily corrected by entering the right information.
User Queries
I am getting error-3253″Connection to the server failed or was dropped.” I encountered this error suddenly, after which I am not being able to send emails, sometimes it works but most of the times it is not working. Though I am receiving emails as before.
How to Fix This Error Code 3253?
The first approach towards finding out the possible error is to figure out the type of Mac Outlook 2016 account which can be any of them: POP3, IMAP. This can be easily found out from the Account Settings.
As we know that Mac Outlook error 3253 is a problem related to connection to the server, thus when we create a new account with proper server settings. Now we will talk about the steps to create a new account, if the steps are properly carried out by the user, then the chances of getting the error again are very less.
Steps to be Followed to Create a New Account:
- Go to applications.
- Right click on MS Outlook & click on Show Package Contents.
- Then go to Contents>> Shared Support>> Outlook Profile Manager; double-click on it.
- Click on Create a new profile & enter the profile name.
- Click on Add account.
- Select the account type – Another email>> IMAP/POP.
- Enter the account details & click Add account.
Conclusion
The connection problem to the servers is a very common error & here we have discussed the possible reasons which cause this Mac Outlook error 3253- “Connection to the Server failed or was dropped” & a solution catering to it. But one thing which is to be noticed is that the solution would work for Mac Outlook 2016.