How to backup iPhone to laptop

Safeguarding your iPhone’s data doesn’t have to involve the cloud or extra subscriptions. With a simple USB connection, you can back up your iPhone directly to your laptop, without being at the mercy of Wi-Fi or remote servers. Just connect your device and use iTunes (on Windows or older Macs) or Finder (on macOS Catalina or newer) to create a comprehensive backup file.

his method ensures most of your essential data is securely stored offline and under your direct control. It’s the practical choice if you’re upgrading phones, have limited iCloud space, or simply want a secure offline copy. Here is how to easily back up your iPhone to a laptop.

How to back up your iPhone to a laptop?

Backing up your iPhone might not be exciting, but it’s essential insurance if anything ever goes wrong. Whether you’re switching phones, safeguarding your information, or just want a local copy, here’s how to back up your iPhone to a Mac or Windows PC:

Back up your iPhone to a MacBook

If you use a MacBook, you can create a full backup without needing iCloud. Everything gets saved directly to your laptop, which means no internet connection is required, and you get more control over your data. To backup your iPhone to a Mac, simply:

1. Connect your iPhone

Plug your iPhone into your MacBook using a USB cable.

2. Open Finder (macOS Catalina or later)

Your iPhone will appear in the sidebar under Locations. Click it to open the backup options.

ALSO READ: 10 ways to fix iPhone notifications not showing up

3. Choose backup settings

Under the General tab, select Back up all of the data on your iPhone to this Mac. To secure your backup with a password, check the box for ‘Encrypt local backup’ and set a password.

4. Click backup now

This will start the backup process. Everything from photos and messages to settings and app data will be saved on your MacBook.

ALSO READ: How do I find my iPhone using Find My on iCloud?

If your Mac is running macOS Mojave or earlier, you’ll need to use iTunes instead of Finder. Open iTunes, click the device icon, go to Summary, and click ‘Back Up Now.’ To encrypt, check ‘Encrypt local backup,’ enter a password, and click ‘Set Password.’ You can check and manage your backups in iTunes Preferences > Devices.

Back up your iPhone to a Windows laptop

If you use a Windows laptop, you can still create a local backup using iTunes, which works the same way. To backup your iPhone to a Windows laptop, all you need to do is:

– Connect your iPhone to your laptop using a USB cable.
– Launch iTunes and click the iPhone icon in the upper-left corner.
– Then, go to the Summary tab and click Back Up Now. To make your backup more secure, check Encrypt local backup, create a password, and click Set Password.

How to turn on Wi-Fi syncing?

If you do not want to plug in your iPhone every time, turn on Wi-Fi syncing so it backs up automatically when on the same network. 

ALSO READ: How to fix an iPhone stuck in SOS mode

To enable Wi-Fi syncing:

– Connect your iPhone to your computer once using a USB cable.

– On a Mac, open Finder, select your iPhone in the sidebar, click General, and check Show this iPhone when on Wi-Fi. On a Windows PC, open iTunes, click the iPhone icon, go to Summary, and check Sync with this iPhone over Wi-Fi under Options.

– Click Apply to save the setting.

That is it. Once the backup finishes, your iPhone data will be safely stored on your laptop and ready to restore anytime you need it.