How to Change iPhone Backup Password If Forgotten
If an iTunes or Finder backup password is forgotten, the old encrypted backup password usually cannot be changed directly. Apple does not provide a way to reveal a forgotten password. The practical fix is to reset all settings on the iPhone, which removes the local backup encryption setting and allows a new backup password to be created for future backups.
Steps
- Open Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings on the iPhone.
- Enter the device passcode and confirm the reset. Personal data stays on the iPhone, but settings such as Wi‑Fi, wallpaper, and preferences are erased.
- Restart the iPhone if needed, then connect the iPhone to a Mac or PC and open Finder or iTunes.
- Create a new encrypted backup and set a new password, or make an unencrypted backup if encryption is not required.
- If an old iTunes backup is locked, keep the old backup file stored separately in case the password is remembered later.
| Option | Best For | Limitation |
|---|---|---|
| Reset All Settings | Removing forgotten backup encryption setting | Does not recover old backup password |
| Use old password attempts | Accessing existing encrypted backup | No official password hint or recovery |
| Create new backup password | Future encrypted backups | Old encrypted backups remain locked |
Common Issues and Fixes
- iTunes backup locked message remains — Cause: computer is still reading an old encrypted backup setting; Fix: reconnect the iPhone, restart the computer, and create a fresh backup after the settings reset.
- Reset All Settings option is missing or restricted — Cause: Screen Time or device management restrictions; Fix: remove restrictions first or use the device passcode with proper permissions.
- Old encrypted backup still cannot be restored — Cause: old backup password was forgot and remains tied to that archive; Fix: only the original password can unlock the old backup.
- Health or saved passwords are missing from a new backup — Cause: unencrypted backups do not include some sensitive data; Fix: create a new encrypted backup with a new password.
- Backup encryption toggle turns on automatically — Cause: Finder or iTunes may preserve previous backup preferences for the same device; Fix: manually review the encryption setting before starting backup.
Quick Tips
- Reset All Settings does not delete photos, apps, or messages, but Wi‑Fi passwords and system preferences must be entered again.
- iCloud backup password and local iTunes backup password are different. An iCloud password does not unlock a local encrypted backup.
- A computer change does not remove the old backup password from an encrypted backup file. The password travels with the backup archive.
- Password managers often store old backup passwords. Checking saved credentials may help before resetting settings.
Related Questions
Can a forgotten iPhone backup password be recovered?
Usually no. Apple does not offer a built-in method to view a local encrypted backup password once it is forgotten.
Does resetting all settings delete iPhone data?
No. Reset All Settings removes system preferences and the change backup password setting for local backups, but personal content remains on the device.
💡Protip:
For users who need a fresh local backup, file export, or broader device management after an iTunes backup locked issue, a phone management tool such as Dr.Fone can help handle backup-related tasks without relying on the old encrypted archive.
