Creating regular backups of your iPhone is a smart way to protect your personal data in case of loss, damage or device replacement. This guide walks you through backing up your device using iCloud, a Mac, or a Windows PC.
⚠️ Before You Start
- Make sure your iPhone is connected to a reliable Wi-Fi network for cloud backups or a USB cable for local backups.
- Keep your device plugged into a power source throughout the backup process.
- Have your passcode ready, you’ll need it to authorise connections and start backups.
Back Up Using iCloud
Enable Automatic iCloud Backups
- Connect your iPhone to a stable Wi-Fi network.
- Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
- Toggle on Back Up This iPhone.
Once enabled, your iPhone will automatically back up when connected to Wi-Fi, a power source, and the screen is locked.
🔎 Note: If your iCloud storage is full, follow on-screen prompts to upgrade your plan.
Manually Back Up to iCloud
- Connect your iPhone to Wi-Fi.
- Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
- Tap Back Up Now.
🔎 Note: Keep your device plugged in until the backup finishes to avoid interruptions.
Back Up Using a Mac
Requires: macOS Catalina or later.
- Connect your iPhone to your Mac with a USB cable.
- On your iPhone, tap Trust This Computer and enter your passcode.
- Open Finder. Your iPhone will appear under Locations in the sidebar.
- Select your device and click Back Up Now.
- Keep your iPhone connected until the backup completes.
You’ll see the time of your Last Backup displayed once finished.
Back Up Using a Windows PC
Install the Apple Devices App
- Open the Microsoft Store.
- Search for Apple Devices.
- Download and install the app.
Create a Backup
- Launch the Apple Devices app on your PC.
- Connect your iPhone to your PC via USB.
- On your iPhone, tap Trust This Computer and enter your passcode.
- Select your iPhone in the app.
- Click the General tab and choose Back Up Now.
Leave your device connected until the backup process is complete. You’ll see a confirmation timestamp under Last Backup.
💡 Tip
Keeping regular backups ensures that your photos, messages, and other personal data are always safe and easy to restore.
