iTunes Unknown Error 3194

The iTunes unknown error 3194 can appear for those who have an iPhone, iTouch or iPad. The downside of this error code is that there are a variety of reasons why it may appear, but the upside is that it is relatively easy to fix. In most cases, unknown error 3194 appears when firmware is being restored on an Apple device.

Anytime you try to restore a stock or custom firmware on an Apple device, iTunes sends a request to the Apple servers to verify the IPSW files associated with the Apple device and to sign the files with the Exclusive Chip ID (ECID) of the device being worked on. This is called the SHSH Blob. When new firmware is released by Apple, it can cause the Apple servers to stop signing the older versions, which results in the unknown error 3194 message.

As a workaround for this error, Cydia has created an SHSH blob caching server. If you run into the unknown error, you can correct it by pointing your iTunes towards Cydia’s servers instead of to Apple servers and save your SHSH blobs for your firmware there. To add Cydia’s SHSH caching servers, do the following:

• Download TinyUmbrella
• Install and launch TinyUmbrella
• Click on the Advanced tab
• Check the box beside “Set Hosts to Cydia on Exit”
• Click on Apply
• Reboot your device or computer

Once you have followed these steps, try to restoring your firmware. The unknown error code 3194 should no longer appear.