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How to Encrypt Your iPhone Backup

Josh Brown

Published: July 31, 2020

Updated: October 31, 2024

8 min read

Before we start

Photos, contacts, text messages, and passwords hold immense value, and ensuring their security is paramount. Creating an encrypted backup adds an extra layer of protection by password-protecting your files and safeguarding them from potential threats. The statistics speak for themselves: in 2022, there were 1.8 million data breaches in the US, contributing to the growing concern of over 50% of Internet users about their digital safety.

The good news is that encrypted backups are simpler than you might imagine! You can easily achieve this security measure using a straightforward solution: the AltTunes app on your PC.

What is an Encrypted Backup?

In simple terms, an encrypted backup serves as an additional security measure employed by entities to safeguard their data in case of theft, loss, or any potential compromise. It's crucial to note that many businesses often conflate encryption with hashing, but it's important to be clear: they are not the same.

Hashing vs. Encryption

The primary distinction between hashing and encryption lies in reversibility. A hash is non-reversible, meaning you cannot take a hash value and deduce the source. Essentially, a hash function is like a fingerprint and is susceptible to certain attacks like collisions or rainbow tables. On the contrary, encryption is reversible. If the decryption keys are known, it can take the ciphertext and revert it to the source.

How to Encrypt your Backup with AltTunes

With AltTunes, creating encrypted backups is easy. Simply enable the 'encrypted backups' option once, and all future backups will be automatically password-protected. To accomplish this, navigate Preferences and activate the 'Encrypt Backups' option. It's as simple as that!

But that's only a teeny-tiny bit of what AltTunes can do! From helping you with restoring iPad from backup to managing music transfers, it's a full suite for managing your iOS devices.

But that's only a tiny bit of things AltTunes can do for you! Check the video below to learn more!

All the vital features for iPhone and iPad management are in one place!

Step 1. Install AltTunes to your PC

AltTunes is a desktop companion app for your iPhone and an essential device manager for backup purposes. Beyond its backup functionality, it provides versatile file transfer capabilities for various data types, such as images, music, videos, contacts, text messages, and more.

You can even back up your iPad seamlessly with AltTunes. Really, it is worth giving it a try!

Step 2. Select ‘Backups’

Choose the ‘Backups’ option from the menu. It’s a green icon with a round arrow. AltTunes allows you to backup and restore your device easily, and even quickly export contacts from iPhone to PC.

Step 3. Choose a reliable password

Select a password that you'll undoubtedly remember. Failure to do so may result in permanent loss of access to your files. This simple but crucial step ensures you have full control over your backup security. If you're interested in extra security options, AltTunes also helps manage iCloud backup files directly from your PC.

Additionally, choose the desired location for backing up your iPhone.

Step 4. Wait till iPhone is backed up

Creating an iPhone backup will take some time, depending on your data size. iMazing will display a progress bar to inform you about the remaining time. Once the process is complete, you'll see a 'Success' message on your display.

AltTunes offers a range of functionalities beyond backup

Export text messages & contacts
Add music & movies to your iPhone bullet-speed and no quality loss
Easily set up a new iPhone in a matter of a click
Transfer apps, documents, ebooks, pictures back and forth from your device
You no longer need to be tied to 1 iTunes library. Sync as many devices as you wish

With AltTunes, you can also transfer music iPhone to PC quickly and without hassle.

How to extract files from encrypted backups using AltTunes

AltTunes stands out as the ultimate go-to app for effortlessly browsing encrypted backups of your iPhone, iPod, or iPad – it supports various devices. Navigating encrypted backups doesn't require rocket science. You can seamlessly browse through your backup with just a few simple steps and minimal effort.

Step 1. Connect your iPhone to your computer

Upon connecting your iPhone to your computer, tap on "Trust this device" when prompted. AltTunes will promptly recognize your device.

Designed for simplicity, AltTunes features a quick sidebar menu for easy navigation. You'll find a brief overview of its capabilities for quick reference.

Step 2. Select the desired backup > ‘View’ and enter the password

AltTunes will prompt you to enter the password. Then, you can browse through the files you previously backed up. Select the desired folder and click 'Export.'

Step 3. Select the needed files & click ‘Export’

Choose the files you want to recover, select the destination on your PC, and click 'Export.'

If you're also wondering how to back up iPhone to external drive, AltTunes offers this functionality.

How to turn off backup encryption on iPhone

Removing an unwanted backup encryption setting has become simpler with iOS 11 and later versions. Your device should be operational and capable of backing up to iCloud, or you must be willing to reset all settings on the device. Here are the steps:

1. On your device, go to Settings > General > Reset.

2. Tap Reset All Settings and enter your device passcode.

3. Follow the steps to reset your settings. This won't affect your user data or passwords, but it will reset settings like display brightness, Home screen layout, and wallpaper. It also removes your encrypted backup password.

4. Connect your device to the Finder or iTunes again and create a new encrypted backup.

Bottom Line

Indeed, locating or altering the iPhone backup location on a PC can be a bit challenging. However, you need not worry. AltTunes is here to streamline the process. Not only does it simplify the procedure, but it also enables you to modify, rename, or extract backup contents.

We trust that this guide proves helpful to you. If it does, don't hesitate to share it with friends who might find it beneficial.

FAQ

How do I create an encrypted backup of my iPhone?

Creating an encrypted backup of your iPhone is easy with AltTunes. Simply enable the “Encrypt Backups” option in the app’s settings and set a password, and all future backups will automatically be protected, securing your photos, contacts, messages, and other vital data.

What is the difference between encrypted backups and regular backups?

An encrypted backup adds an extra layer of security by password-protecting your files, ensuring that only authorized users can access the data. Regular backups do not include this protection, leaving your personal information vulnerable to theft or loss.

How do I recover data from an encrypted iPhone backup?

To recover data from an encrypted iPhone backup, use AltTunes. After connecting your device, enter your password when prompted, and you can browse and export your files. This method ensures you maintain access to all data stored in your encrypted backups.

Can I turn off iPhone backup encryption?

Yes, you can turn off iPhone backup encryption by resetting your device’s settings. Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings. This will remove the encryption password without affecting your data, allowing you to create a new backup without encryption.

How do I choose a password for an encrypted backup?

When setting up an encrypted backup, choose a strong password that you can easily remember. AltTunes prompts you to create this password during the backup process. It’s important to choose carefully because forgetting it could mean permanent loss of access to your data.