Restoring data from a Windows PC to a new iPhone or iPad can be done using iTunes, the official tool for managing iOS devices on Windows. iTunes allows users to restore a local backup stored on their PC, which includes apps, settings, contacts, and media files. This process ensures that all critical data from the old device is transferred accurately to the new iPhone or iPad.
Before starting, verify that iTunes is installed and updated to the latest version on your Windows PC. A backup from your previous iPhone or iPad should already be available on the computer. iTunes is designed to facilitate secure and complete data transfers between iOS devices and Windows PCs without relying on cloud services.
The restoration process involves connecting the new iPhone or iPad to the PC via USB, selecting the appropriate backup, and restoring the data. This method is particularly useful when dealing with large backups or slow internet connections. The local backup on the PC contains all essential data, which can be transferred efficiently using iTunes.
Ensure you have iTunes installed on your Windows PC, and that the backup of the previous device is accessible on your computer before starting the process.
Steps to restore iPhone or iPad data from Windows PC backup:
- Install iTunes on your Windows PC if not already installed.
- Open iTunes and check for updates.
Go to Help > Check for Updates to ensure that you are using the latest version of iTunes.
- Connect your new iPhone or iPad to the PC using a USB cable.
- On your device, tap Trust if prompted to trust the computer.
- In iTunes, select the device icon located at the top-left corner.
- Click on the Summary tab in the left-hand panel.
- Click on Restore Backup in the Backup section.
- Select the appropriate backup from the dropdown list.
- If your backup is encrypted, enter the backup password.
- Click Restore to start the process.
- Wait for the process to complete. Do not disconnect the device during this time.
The restore process may take several minutes, depending on the size of the backup.
- Once the restoration is complete, set up your iPhone or iPad as prompted by the device.

Mohd Shakir Zakaria is a cloud architect with deep roots in software development and open-source advocacy. Certified in AWS, Red Hat, VMware, ITIL, and Linux, he specializes in designing and managing robust cloud and on-premises infrastructures.
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