What does a Local iPhone Backup Save?
A local iPhone backup saves a copy of your phone on a Mac or a Windows PC. No iCloud storage is involved, so the 5 GB free tier does not limit the backup.
Apple describes the steps on its page for backing up an iPhone with a computer. The computer backup restores the same iPhone or a new one.
| Computer | App | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Mac with macOS Catalina or later | Finder | Free |
| Windows PC | Apple Devices app | Free |
| Older Mac or a PC without Apple Devices | iTunes | Free |
How does Finder Save the Backup?
Method #1: Finder on Mac (Free)
Who it suits. Mac users on macOS Catalina or later. Extra application. None.
- Connect the iPhone to the Mac with a cable.
- Unlock the iPhone and select Trust when it asks.
- Open Finder and select the iPhone under Locations.
- Select the General tab.
- Choose Back up all of the data on your iPhone to this Mac.
- Switch on Encrypt local backup and set a password to retain saved passwords and Health data.
- Select Back Up Now.
Wait for the progress bar to end before you unplug the iPhone from the Mac. Finder shows the date and time of the last backup.
Heads Up. Store the encryption password in a safe place. Apple cannot recover it for you.
How does Apple Devices Save the Backup?
Method #2: Apple Devices App (Free)
Who it suits. Windows PC users. Extra application. Apple Devices from the Microsoft Store.
- Install Apple Devices from the Microsoft Store.
- Connect the iPhone to the PC with a USB cable.
- Unlock the iPhone and select Trust.
- Open Apple Devices and select the iPhone in the sidebar.
- Choose the backup to this computer and switch on encryption when you want it.
- Select Back Up Now under Backups.
Apple lists the same steps in its Apple Devices guide to backup and restore for an iPhone. Low disk space can stop a backup, so free some space first.
What if Apple Devices is Not Available?
Method #3: iTunes (Free)
Use it when. Your PC has no Apple Devices app or your Mac uses macOS Mojave or earlier. Extra application. iTunes.
- Open iTunes and connect the iPhone.
- Select the iPhone icon near the top left.
- Select Summary.
- Select Back Up Now.
Apple names iTunes as the route for these older Mac and Windows setups on the same support page.
How do You Restore the Backup?
Connect the iPhone to the same Mac or PC and open Finder or Apple Devices. Select Restore Backup and choose the backup by date.
Enter the encryption password when the computer backup needs it.
What are the Limits of a Computer Backup?
- The computer backup needs free disk space.
- The backup restores a device and shows no single files.
- A plain backup leaves out Health data and saved logins.
- Photos stored in iCloud Photos do not enter a computer backup.
- A cable backup works only while the iPhone remains connected.
Heads Up. Save contacts and photos too when you switch phones. Check the backup date before you erase the iPhone.
Where Else do You Go From Here?
- Move contacts to the phone with the guide to import VCF contacts to iPhone without iCloud.
- Add work contacts with the guide to add Office 365 contacts to iPhone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Backup an iPhone Without iCloud?
Yes. Use Finder on a Mac or the Apple Devices app on Windows. Both save the backup on the computer.
Which App Makes the Backup on a Mac?
Finder does on macOS Catalina and later. Older Macs use iTunes.
Which App Makes the Backup on Windows?
The Apple Devices app does. iTunes remains an option when Apple Devices is missing.
Should You Encrypt the Local Backup?
Yes when you want Health data and saved logins in the backup. Store the password safely.
How do You Restore an iPhone From a Computer Backup?
Connect the iPhone, open Finder or Apple Devices and select Restore Backup.
Does the Backup Include iCloud Photos?
No. Photos stored in iCloud Photos remain in iCloud and do not enter the computer backup.
Why does the Computer Not See the iPhone?
Unlock the iPhone, select Trust and try another cable or USB port.
Author's Verdict
Use Finder on a Mac and Apple Devices on Windows for a free full backup.
Switch on encryption and store the password safely.
Key Takeaways
- Finder and Apple Devices both save an iPhone backup for free.
- Encryption adds Health data and saved logins.
- A computer backup restores a device and shows no single files.
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