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, 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 by 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 original source. Essentially, a hash functions 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 original source.

How to Encrypt your Backup with AltTunes

Creating encrypted backups is a breeze with AltTunes. Simply enable the 'encrypted backups' option once, and all future backups will be automatically password-protected.

To accomplish this, navigate to Preferences and activate the 'Encrypt Backups' option. It's as simple as that!

Step 1. Install AltTunes to your PC

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

You can download and use the app for free during the trial period. Feel free to give it a try!

Step 2. Select ‘Backups’

Choose the ‘Backups’ from the menu. It’s a green icon with a round arrow.

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. While this step may seem obvious, it's surprising how many people fall into this trap repeatedly.

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, varying depending on the size of your data. iMazing will display a progress bar to keep you informed 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.

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 a range of devices. Navigating encrypted backups doesn't require rocket science. With just a few simple steps and minimal effort, you can seamlessly browse through your backup.

Step 1. Install AltTunes on your PC

Before you start, ensure you download iMazing. You'll be prompted with a free trial without any restrictions.

For AltTunes, you can download it for free from the developer's official website.

Step 2. 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 3. Select the desired backup > ‘View’ and enter the password

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

Step 4. Select the needed files & click ‘Export’

Simply choose the desired destination, and there you have it – achievement unlocked!

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 can AltTunes be used to browse and extract files from encrypted backups?

After installing AltTunes, users can connect their iPhone to their computer, select the desired backup, enter the password, and browse files. They can then choose the needed files and easily export them to a selected destination.

Is extracting files from encrypted backups a complex process?

No, AltTunes is designed to be user-friendly, making it a straightforward process to browse and extract files from encrypted backups with minimal effort. The app simplifies the procedure for users.

Can AltTunes be used for other purposes besides extracting files from backups?

Yes, AltTunes offers various functionalities beyond backups, including exporting text messages and contacts, adding music and movies to the iPhone, and facilitating easy setup of a new iPhone with just a click.

Josh Brown

CEO at Softorino

How to Encrypt your iPhone Backup