Recover all data from your iOS devices, iTunes and iCloud backup.
How to Restore iPhone from Backup? iCloud, iTunes, etc.
Posted by Alvin Cantero to iOS Recovery Nov 14, 2025
You may have faced update failure, a reset, or a device replacement, and the stressful thing was losing data from your iPhone! Fortunately, Apple has several ways to restore iPhone from a backup to retrieve important files, photos, and settings immediately. From iCloud to iTunes or Finder, multiple methods are available to help you restore an iPhone backup selectively or completely. Each with clear steps, pros, and cons, dive into the following parts to get your iPhone data back safely and efficiently.
Guide List
How to Restore iPhone from Backup Effectively How to Restore iPhone from Backup Using iCloud Restore iPhone to Previous Backup via ComputerHow to Restore iPhone from Backup Effectively
Retrieving iPhone from backup can be simple, but the results depend on how safely and efficiently you manage your data. While iCloud and iTunes/Finder offer Apple's built-in solutions, they often come with limits, like slow speed and data overwriting. Therefore, here's one highly recommended option to restore iPhone from backup without erasing or resetting: the 4Easysoft iOS Data Backup & Restore. This software is an all-in-one tool made to help you restore your iPhone effectively without affecting other data. Whether you reset your iPhone, accidentally delete files, or upgrade to a new one, this tool lets you recover data selectively. With its clean interface alongside a straightforward process, anyone can use it with confidence.
Let you choose specific files or data to restore instead of a full backup.
View backup content first, like photos, messages, contacts, etc., before restoring.
Ensures reliable data restoration without any corruption or loss.
Works with all iPhone models and iOS versions, including the latest ones.
100% Secure
100% Secure
Step 1Once you have launched 4Easysoft iOS Data Backup & Restore, connect your iPhone to your PC via a USB cable. Then, select the "iOS Data Restore" option from the main screen.
Step 2You'll then see all the backup histories made together with your device's information, backup size, and time. Choose the desired one and click the "View Now" button to see all backup data.
Step 3Next, choose the data you wish to restore by checking the boxes next to them. You can click the "Select All" box to restore everything. Click the "Next" button to start iPhone data restoring.
100% Secure
100% Secure
How to Restore iPhone from Backup Using iCloud
Did you recently reset your iPhone or maybe purchase a new one? If so, restoring an iPhone from a backup, mainly iCloud, can quickly bring back your data, settings, and applications. With this method, you only need a stable Wi-Fi connection and your Apple ID, of course. Below are the steps to restore an iPhone from iCloud backup, followed by its pros and cons to help you decide if it is the best option for you.
Step 1Head to the "Settings" app on your iPhone, then the "General" section, and select "Transfer or Reset iPhone". Next, tap on "Erase All Content and Settings" to return your iOS device to factory settings.
Step 2Now, turn on your iPhone, and once you have reached the on-screen setup instructions "Apps & Data", sign in using your Apple ID and password to open your iCloud account.
Step 3After that, select the most recent backup from the list, and make sure your iPhone stays connected to a stable Wi-Fi connection and power throughout the process.
Step 4The process may take time depending on your backup size and internet speed. After it gets done, all apps, photos, and data will be automatically downloaded to your device.
Pros of Restoring Backup from iCloud:
• Offers a convenient and wireless solution. No need for any computer and cables.
• Easy access. Restore your data anywhere with an internet connection.
• Automatic backups. iCloud regularly backs up your device when connected to Wi-Fi.
Cons of Restoring Backup from iCloud:
• Limited free storage only. iCloud only has 5GB of free storage space, which is not enough for full backups.
• Needs a stable Wi-Fi connection. Interrupted connections can lead to restoration failure.
• Works slower than iTunes or Finder. Downloading data may take longer depending on your connection speed.
Restore iPhone to Previous Backup via Computer
If you have the sync with iCloud paused problem, you can restore iPhone from backup using a computer. Unlike the previous method, using a computer does not depend on your internet speed and just lets you manage larger backups quickly. Depending on what operating system you're using, whether Windows or Mac, you can restore an iPhone backup through iTunes or Finder.
Check out the detailed steps below for each, along with the pros and cons of each method.
How to Restore iPhone from Backup Using iTunes
Step 1Open the latest version of the iTunes app on your computer. Then, connect your iPhone via a USB cable. Once iTunes detects your iPhone, click the "Device" icon.
Step 2Head to the "Summary" tab and click the "Restore Backup" button. There, pick the most recent backup or your desired one from the list. If it is encrypted, please enter your password.
Step 3Kindly keep your iPhone connected until the restoration process is complete. After that, your device will restart, and the data will sync automatically.
Pros of Restoring iPhone from Backup via iTunes:
• Offers large backup storage. Your computer's drive stores whole device backups. You can transfer music from iTunes to iPhone, also works for other data types.
• Faster restoration. No Wi-Fi connection needed, making it quicker than iCloud.
• Encrypted backups supported. Secure your data with passwords and health data.
Cons of Restoring iPhone from Backup via iTunes:
• Manual backups. It does not back up automatically unless you connect your device.
• Needs a computer connection. You will need a USB cable and computer access to use it.
• Limited to older macOS or Windows. Newer versions of macOS, Catalina and later, use Finder.
How to Restore iPhone from Backup Using Finder
Step 1First, connect your iPhone to your Mac via a USB or USB-C cable, then open the "Finder" window.
Step 2There, select your iPhone from the sidebar under "Locations". Then, click the "General" tab and select the "Restore Backup" option. Determine the preferred backup file and, if it is encrypted, enter your password, then click the "Restore" button.
Step 3Please keep your iPhone connected until the restoration process finishes, and your device will restart.
Pros of Restoring iPhone from Backup via Finder:
• Faster data restoration. Perfect for large backups without depending on Wi-Fi connection.
• Works so stably and securely. Uses the same encrypted backup system as iTunes.
• Integrated with macOS. There's no need for iTunes since it is built directly into Mac earlier versions.
Cons of Restoring iPhone from Backup via Finder:
• It is only available on Mac. There's no version for Windows PCs.
• Needs manual setup. You need to connect and choose backups manually.
• Offers no cloud access. Unlike iCloud, you cannot restore without your backup file present.
Conclusion
Restoring an iPhone from backup is not as complicated as you think it is. Whether you use iCloud for wireless convenience, iTunes or Finder, or a more flexible solution, there's always a method that fits your needs. 4Easysoft iOS Data Backup & Restore does better than the other competitors in safety, speed, and simplicity. You can selectively restore iPhone backups without overwriting current data. With this program, you can restore your backup confidently, ensuring your crucial data is always within reach.
100% Secure
100% Secure
