Losing important data on your iPhone can be stressful, but thankfully, Apple provides multiple ways to restore your iPhone from backup. Whether you've backed up your data to iCloud or iTunes, there's a solution for you. This comprehensive guide covers how to restore iPhone from iCloud backup and iTunes backup. Let's look at them one by one.
Restoring your iPhone from iCloud is the most convenient option for users who regularly back up their data to Apple's cloud service. However, this method requires erasing all content and settings from your iPhone before restoration, which could lead to data loss if not done carefully.
Here is how to restore iPhone from iCloud backup:
Step 1. Go to "Settings" > "General" > "Transfer or Reset iPhone" > "Erase All Content and Settings".
Step 2. Restart your device. During setup, follow the onscreen instructions.
Step 3. Choose "Restore from iCloud Backup" and sign in with your Apple ID when prompted.
Step 4. Pick a backup from the list based on date and time. Wait for the restore process to complete.
Step 5. Keep your iPhone connected to Wi-Fi and power until the entire process finishes.
Another common way to restore iPhone from backup is through iTunes (or Finder for macOS Catalina and above). This method involves using a previously saved backup stored locally on your computer. Similar to iCloud, this method replaces all current data on your iPhone.
Here is how to restore iPhone from iTunes backup:
Step 1. Use a Lightning cable to connect your iPhone to a computer and open iTunes or Finder.
Step 2. Click the iPhone icon in the upper-left corner of iTunes.
Step 3. Click "Restore Backup". Choose a backup file from the list. Make sure to select the most relevant one.
Step 4. If your backup is encrypted, you'll be prompted to enter the encryption password.
Step 5. Click "Restore" and wait. Keep your device connected until done.
If you don't want to wipe your current data, the best solution is to use a third-party tool like Coolmuster iPhone Data Recovery. This software allows you to preview and selectively restore iPhone data from iTunes or iCloud backup without resetting your device. It's ideal when you just want to recover messages, contacts, photos, etc. without affecting current files.
Highlights of iPhone Data Recovery:
Click the download button below to download this tool on your PC and follow the steps below to restore iPhone from backup using iPhone Data Recovery.
01Launch the program after you have installed it on your computer and choose the "Recover from iTunes Backup File" option at the left corner of your computer screen. It will automatically scan the iTunes backup location on the PC. Select the backup file from the list that appears on the interface and click on the "Start Scan" button.
02Tick all the data types you would like to restore and tap on the "Start Scan" button in the right corner.
03Click on a category and then select the detailed deleted files on the right. To restore your files from the iTunes backups, click on the "Recover to Computer" button. Then, you will get your iTunes backup.
01Launch the software and switch to "Recover from iCloud" mode. Sign in to your iCloud account when prompted to proceed.
Note: If two-factor authentication is required, enter the verification code sent to your iOS device and click "Verify" to continue.
02Next, select the file types you wish to recover and click the "Next" button to begin a quick scan. This will allow you to preview more details of your iCloud backup files.
03Once you've selected the files you want to restore, click the "Recover to Computer" button to save them on your device.
Video Tutorial:
Q1. Why can't I restore backups on my iPhone?
If you're having trouble restoring a backup from iCloud or iTunes, first check if the backup is compatible with your device or iOS version. If you see an error saying your software is outdated, update your iOS manually and try restoring the backup again.
Q2. How long does it take to restore an iPhone from backup?
It depends on the size of your backup and your network speed. iCloud restores may take several hours, while iTunes is faster.
Q3. Can I restore a backup without erasing my iPhone data?
The official methods (iCloud/iTunes) require data to be erased before restoring. If you want to keep your existing data while restoring backup content, it's recommended to use the iPhone Data Recovery we mentioned in Part 3.
That's all about how to restore iPhone from backup. If you're willing to erase your device and restore everything, Apple's iCloud or iTunes backup options can work well. However, if you're looking to restore iPhone from backup without data loss, the smart and safe option is Coolmuster iPhone Data Recovery. It offers more control, and better flexibility, and ensures no current data is affected.
Download Coolmuster iPhone Data Recovery now to safely and efficiently retrieve your lost data without wiping your device.
Related Articles:
3 Workable Ways | How to Restore iPhone from Backup After Setup?
iTunes Backup and Restore: Back Up & Restore iPhone with/without iTunes
How to Recover Data After Factory Reset iPhone? Solved in 3 Ways
How to Recover Deleted iCloud Backup - Exploring 4 Powerful Strategies
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