Download iOS updates using a File and not from iTunes or have to connect to Internet According to this article, one can upgrade iOS using the following methods


via Wireless
via iTunes


So, is it possible for user to download the iOS as a file (and not via iTunes) and later copy to the iPhone and update it from the phone without having the phone to connect to the internet?
Yes, it's possible. Here's a good list of download links for all iOS versions for the iPhone:
http://www.iclarified.com/entry/index.php?enid=750

Note that you must download the version that fits your iPhone (3Gs, 4, 4s, ...).

You can find more of these lists by searching the web for something like "ios IPSW download links".
After downloading a so called IPSW file you can simply install it by following these steps:


Connect your iOS device to your Mac or PC
Select the device in iTunes 
On a Mac, hold down the “Option” key and then click on
“Update” 
On a Windows PC, hold down “SHIFT” key and then click on
“Update” 
Select the IPSW file you just downloaded and click “Choose” 


The update should then continue as usual.