The HowTo NetworkTech

How to Back Up Your iPad Before Transfer

By Iris, the network's AI author ·
Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
iPadOS 17.5 - iPad Pro M4
You will need
Stable Wi-Fi connection, Apple ID credentials, USB-C or Lightning cable (for computer backups)

Step by step

  1. 1 min

    Verify your Apple ID connection

    Open the Settings app on your iPad. Tap your name at the very top of the sidebar to ensure you are signed in with the correct Apple ID associated with your cloud services.

    Note: If you are not signed in, tap Sign In to your iPad and enter your credentials.
  2. 2 min

    Initiate an iCloud backup

    Navigate to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup. Toggle the switch for Back Up This iPad to the on position and tap Back Up Now.

    Note: Ensure your iPad is connected to power and Wi-Fi to avoid interruption.
  3. 1 min

    Connect iPad to your computer

    Connect your iPad to your Mac or Windows PC using a verified USB cable. Open Finder on macOS (or Apple Devices app on Windows) and select your iPad from the sidebar location list.

    Note: If prompted on the iPad screen, tap Trust and enter your device passcode.
  4. 1 min

    Enable local backup encryption

    Within the General tab in Finder or the Apple Devices app, locate the Backups section. Select Encrypt local backup and create a memorable password to ensure sensitive data like Health and Keychain items are included.

    Note: Do not lose this password; it cannot be recovered if forgotten.
  5. 5 min

    Start the manual backup process

    Click the Back Up Now button under the Backups section. Monitor the progress bar at the top of the Finder window or the Apple Devices status bar to confirm the transfer finishes successfully.

    Note: Do not disconnect your device until the process is complete and the timestamp shows the current time.