How to Back Up an iPhone or iPad: Step-by-Step Guide
Backing up your iPhone or iPad means making a safe copy of your photos, contacts and messages. If your device is ever lost, broken or replaced, a backup lets you get everything back. It happens quietly in the background, and once it is switched on you rarely need to think about it.
This guide shows you how to turn on iCloud Backup, the simplest method, step by step. For the wider view, our guide to the best tablets for seniors in Australia compares the main options.
Quick answer
Open Settings, tap your name at the top, then iCloud, then iCloud Backup. Turn it on and tap Back Up Now. With this on, your device backs up automatically each night while it is charging and connected to Wi-Fi.
1. Open Settings and tap your name
Tap the grey Settings icon. At the very top you will see your name. Tap it to open your Apple Account settings.
2. Tap iCloud
On your account screen, tap iCloud. This is Apple’s secure online storage, included free with every device.
3. Tap iCloud Backup and turn it on
Scroll down and tap iCloud Backup. Turn the switch on so it is green. This tells your device to back itself up automatically.
4. Tap Back Up Now
Tap Back Up Now to make your first backup straight away. Stay on Wi-Fi while it finishes. After this, it will keep backing up on its own each night while the device charges.
A few things to know
- Apple gives every account a small amount of free iCloud storage. If your backup needs more, you can pay a small monthly fee for extra space.
- Backups run on Wi-Fi, so they do not use your mobile data.
- Keep your Apple Account email and password somewhere safe. You need them to restore a backup.
- You can also back up to a computer if you prefer, by connecting the device with a cable.
Before you finish
Download the free Family Tech Safety Checklist to help check phone safety, passwords, scam messages, emergency contacts and medical alarm details.
FAQ: Backing up an iPhone or iPad
What does a backup actually save?
It saves your photos, contacts, messages, app data and settings. If you set up a new device, you can restore the backup and pick up where you left off.
How do I know it is working?
Go back to Settings, your name, iCloud, then iCloud Backup. It shows the date and time of the last backup. If that is recent, all is well.
What if it says my storage is full?
This is common. You can buy a little more iCloud storage for a small monthly fee, or back up to a computer instead. A family member can help you choose.
Does backing up cost money?
The first amount of storage is free. You only pay if your backup grows beyond that, and even then it is a small monthly amount.
Will it slow my device down?
No. Backups run quietly at night while charging, and you will not notice them during the day.
