How to downgrade ipod classic?

[User Name jim]

Hello. I have the 3g classic(160GB) and it is on firmware 2.0.4. I want to put it back to 2.0.2. I can put the ipod in dfu mode. And I have the files iPod_35.2.0.2.ipsw and iPod_35.2.0.2.ipsw.signature. These are fresh files straight from apple. Is there any way I can downgrade?

[pintsizemacman]

First, you're gonna need the older version of the software...if your iPod was delivered with the desired older software already installed, you p'bly [o]don't[/i] have a copy. If you updated the iPod to the version you're trying to go back to, you p'bly do have the software, in a folder named "iPod Software Updates" (sorry, don't recall where that's located on Windows).

You'll need two files: one is the actual software (named something like "iPod_18.1.0.1.ipsw") and another is a verification file (named something like "iPod_18.1.0.1.ipsw.signature"). With both of those in the "iPod Software Updates" folder, do this:
1) unplug from the internet
2) fire up iTunes, connect the iPod
3) select Restore from iPod's Summary pane in iTunes window
4) iTunes will offer to use the old software; yes yes
5) let iPod reboot after the Restore, while still connected to computer/iTunes; if it takes longer than 10 minutes you may have to force an iPod restart (or more drastic measures).

Since Restore wipes everything out, make sure you save important stuff from your iPod before downgrading!:)

[csjo00]

Are you having problems on the new firmware too?

I just updated mine, and now I can't seem to sync my music.. It'll get about halfway done and then it'll get thrown into restore mode and I have to restore it.. :|

[User Name jim]

Are you having problems on the new firmware too?

I just updated mine, and now I can't seem to sync my music.. It'll get about halfway done and then it'll get thrown into restore mode and I have to restore it.. :|
For me the firmware works fine, but the notes exploit doesn't seem to work on it.

[User Name jim]

I figured out how to downgrade. My ipod is back on 2.0.2. Feel free to close this thread.

[User Name jim]

Well since this thread has not been closed yet l guess i'll mention that I just installed a nds rom instead of firmware on my ipod. While this obviously renders the ipod unusable, I thought it was worth noting.


EDIT: I have since tried installing 2.0.1 which is a 2g classic firmware. itunes was able to recognize the ipod as having 2.0.1 installed on it but the ipod was not able to initialize properly and was stuck in recovery mode so I upgraded back to 2.0.2.