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How to Restore Your iPhone from Backup

Selena Lee

Jul 12, 2024 • Filed to: Backup & Restore Data • Proven solutions

You should create a backup to avoid any data loss. Maybe your phone is acting up, and you want to reset it to its original settings using the latest backup. Or you're getting a new phone and need to move all your stuff. You could even just back up certain things to be safe.

Whatever the reason, having a backup of your iPhone means you can be ready to restore your data whenever you need it. By default, Apple provides a seamless solution for data storage through iCloud.

As a cloud-based service, iCloud not only simplifies the backup process but also grants you the convenience of accessing your data from various devices. It makes sure your essential information is always within reach.

To get your data back, we will show you how to restore iCloud backup.

Part 1: Check Your Latest Backup

Before you can restore from an iCloud backup, you need to back them up first. Once you have successfully backed up your data to iCloud, you can then easily initiate the restoration process from this backup whenever required.

Now, follow these steps to check your iCloud backup:

  • Step 1: Open Settings > your account > iCloud.
  • Step 2: Follow one of these options based on your device's operating system:

For iOS 16 or later: Simply tap on "iCloud Backup."

If your iPhone is running on iOS 15 or earlier, Tap on "Manage Storage" > "Backups."

See if you have turned on your backup. You can also find the information of your last backup by opening the backup option.

Check the latest backup date on iCloud

Part 2: How To Selectively Restore iCloud Backup

If you only opt to restore selected data from your iCloud backup, you can use Dr.Fone Data Recovery tool. This tool has been carefully crafted to provide users with a smooth and efficient way to recover specific data from their iCloud backups without any loss.

How to restore iCloud backup selectively with Dr.Fone Data Recovery tool:

  • Step 1: Launching the Dr.Fone data recovery tool

To begin, initiate the process by opening the Dr.Fone software on your computer following its successful installation. Navigate to the "Toolbox" section and then select "Data Recovery" to launch the tool.

Launch Dr.Fone Data Recovery Tool

  • Step 2: Choosing the iOS device type

On the next screen, opt for the iOS device since you will be able to recover your data on an iOS device. Once redirected, choose the "Recover Data from an iOS device" option from the list.

Select Recover data from iOS

  • Step 3: Connecting the iPhone and selecting file types to restore

You will be prompted on the next screen to link your iPhone. After connecting the device, allow the platform to detect it.

Once your iPhone is detected, the next screen will display a list of recoverable file types. You can select specific file types for recovery or exclude certain ones. Then, click the "Start Scan" button.

Choose file types for iOS data recovery

You will see your data being recovered from your Phone on the next window. Allow the platform to complete the scanning process. Once finished, you can conveniently preview all the recovered data.

  • Step 4: Previewing data and starting the restoration

Upon the completion of the scanning process, you can preview each data you intend to recover. Use the tabs at the top to choose whether you want to view all data or focus on existing or deleted items. Once you've made your selections, proceed by selecting the data you wish to recover and then click "Restore to Device."

Filter and select data to recover

  • Step 5: Selecting the Device for Restoration

Next, a window will prompt you to select the specific iOS device to which you want to restore the data. Choose your device and click "Continue."

Filter and select data to recover

Note: Before restoring the data to your device, it is necessary to deactivate the "Find My" service on your iDevice. After disabling this service on your device, confirm by clicking "OK" on your computer. That’s all! The data will be successfully restored and displayed on the screen.

Bonus: Recovering data to a computer

If you prefer to recover the data to your computer, select the desired data and then click on "Recover to Computer." Then, you will see a prompt allowing you to choose a location for storing the recovered data. Select the location and initiate the recovery process by clicking "Recover."

Part 3: Restoring from iCloud Backup

Now that you've made sure you have your latest backup and know how to back up and restore data selectively, let's learn how to restore all your data from an iCloud backup.

Just remember that a necessary step involves erasing all your data from your iPhone. While this might initially raise concerns like "What if I lose everything in the process?" you don’t have to fret. As long as you have your iCloud backup, you'll soon have your device up and running just the way it was.

How to restore iPhone from iCloud backup:

  • Step 1: After resetting your iPhone, you’ll need to start turning on your device. As it springs to life, you'll be greeted by the familiar Hello screen, a sign that you're on the right track.
  • Step 2: Follow the instructions to set up your iPhone until you reach the Apps & Data screen. This is your golden ticket to restoration. Here, tap on the option that reads "Restore from iCloud Backup."

Select restore from iCloud backup

  • Step 3: Sign in to your iCloud account using your Apple ID. This step is vital to access your backup and all the precious data it holds.

Step 4: Among the list of backups, take a moment to examine the dates and sizes. Choose the backup that's most relevant to your needs. After making your selection, the restoration process will commence.

  • Step 5: Sometimes, technology requires an update to continue. If a prompt informs you that a newer software version is necessary, follow the onscreen instructions to update. In case the instructions don't pop up, don't worry; just follow the guidance for that too.
  • Step 6: When prompted, sign in once again with your Apple ID. This is a vital step to reinstate your apps and purchases.

If you've got a collection from multiple Apple IDs, brace yourself; you'll be asked to sign in to each. Forgot your password? No problem. You can skip this for now and sign in later. Just remember, full access will require that Apple ID input.

  • Step 7: When connected to Wi-Fi, watch out for a progress bar that will appear on the screen. How fast this process goes can vary depending on your backup's size and your network speed.

Wait until the iCloud restoration process is completed

Remember, the progress will pause if you disconnect from Wi-Fi too soon. Keep connected to ensure your restoring progress is going smoothly. As the progress bar completes itself, your device will begin to wrap up its setup. In no time, you'll be reunited with your beloved apps, photos, music, and all other information you hold dear.

So, there you have it – a guide to restore from iCloud backup!

Part 4: How To Restore iCloud Backup Using iTunes/Finder

Both iTunes and Finder on your laptop serve as versatile tools that extend beyond their primary functions – they can also act as efficient backup restoration. By seamlessly integrating with your Apple ecosystem, these applications provide a safeguard for your valuable data, ensuring its accessibility and security.

When you opt to restore iCloud backups through iTunes or Finder, you can store your data on your laptop rather than your phone. Here's a simple guide on how to restore an iCloud backup to your computer:

  • Step 1: If you're using a Mac with macOS Catalina or a newer version, open the Finder. For those with macOS Mojave or an earlier version, or if you're on a PC, open iTunes.
  • Step 2: Connect your iPhone. If a message pops up requesting your device passcode or to "Trust This Computer," adhere to the instructions displayed on the screen.

Select Trust This Computer when prompted

  • Step 3: When your iPhone appears in the Finder window or iTunes, select it. If your device doesn't show up, refer to the troubleshooting steps.
  • Step 4: Choose the "Restore iPhone" option and review the dates of your available backups. Select the one that you need or the latest one.

Restore iPhone backup on iTunes

  • Step 5: Click the "Restore" button and patiently wait for the restoration process to complete. If prompted, input the password for your encrypted backup.

Keep your device connected even after it restarts. Wait for it to sync with your computer. You're free to disconnect once the synchronization finishes.

Common iCloud Restoration Failures and Solutions

While iCloud restoration is a convenient way to restore your Apple devices to a previous backup, there are instances where iCloud restoration might encounter errors that prevent a successful restore.

Common iCloud restoration failures could include:

  • Connectivity issue or a problem with the iTunes software.
  • Hardware-related issues, such as a faulty Touch ID sensor or mismatched components
  • Error during iOS downgrade attempts
  • Faulty USB connections
  • Issues with iCloud servers or incomplete backups

If one of those things happens to you, you can try the following solutions based on the cause:

  • Update your Mac or PC and make sure that your computer's operating system is up to date.
  • Connect your device directly to your computer's USB port. Make sure the USB cable is in proper working condition.
  • Try a different Apple USB cable or switch to another USB port on your computer.
  • Restart both devices.
  • Check the security software. Update, change, or uninstall such software if necessary.
safe Downloadsafe & secure

Conclusion

iCloud backup restoration is like a safety net for Apple users. It helps you get back your data and settings from a previous backup. If you're switching to a new device, resetting your current one, or something got deleted – this is your solution. It keeps your important stuff from disappearing forever. A must-know trick for all Apple users, ensuring your digital life always stays intact.

Selena Lee

chief Editor

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