Data Backup Digest

iOS 7 is the latest operating system for Apple’s mobile devices. The technology company claims that their mobile platforms will now be “from a whole new perspective”. The new OS has a new design, featuring a simplified look and flat style graphics. It also comes with new features such as Control Center, AirDrop and smarter multitasking.

A lot of users will be keen to upgrade their devices to the latest iOS version in order to reap the benefits. The process should be a smooth one and go without a hitch, but that’s never really the case when it comes to these things. It’s definitely worth backing up your data before you upgrade to iOS 7. It doesn't take long and will save you a potential headache down the line.

This article will talk through the two different ways that you can back up your iPhone data.

Backing up using iCloud

Having an iCloud account will grant you 5 GB of free storage. iCloud backs up things like purchased content, photos and videos, settings, messages and voicemail.

iCloud automatically runs a daily backup of these things, but first you need to make sure that iCloud Backup is enabled. To check, go to ‘Settings’, then ‘iCloud’ and then ‘Storage & Backup’. Turn the switch to ‘ON’ if it’s not already.

If you want to perform a manual backup, first make sure that your device is connected to the internet over Wi-Fi and then select ‘Back Up Now’ from the same screen.

An automatic backup will run daily providing that you’re connected to Wi-Fi, a power source and have the screen locked.

Once you’ve upgraded to iOS 7, your device should retain the connection to your iCloud account and automatically sync everything if needs be.

If necessary, go to ‘Settings’, ‘General’, ‘Reset’ and then ‘Erase All Content and Settings’ and then ‘Restore from iCloud Backup’ when prompted.

Backing up using iTunes

It’s also possible to complete your backup using iTunes, if you prefer, or if you’re unable to use iCloud.

First, connect your iOS device to your computer. Ensure you have the latest version of iTunes installed and update it if you don’t.

Now, click ‘File’ and then select ‘Devices’ and then ‘Back up’. To check that the backup was successful, open the iTunes Preferences window and click the ‘Devices’ tab. The name of your device and the timestamp of your backup should appear on the list.

To restore from the backup, connect your iOS device to the computer you performed the backup on. Then go to ‘Devices’ and then ‘Restore from Back up’. Alternatively, you can open the iOS device’s ‘Summary’ tab and choose ‘Restore Backup’ from there.

Please note that iTunes will not automatically backup if you’re using iCloud. If you want to use it as a secondary method then you’ll have to perform the above procedure manually.