Backing up your iPhone 6s to your computer gives you a local, searchable copy of your photos, messages, apps, and settings. This guide walks through the reasons to back up and the practical steps to perform a reliable backup using iTunes on Windows or macOS.
A successful backup protects you against loss from a broken screen, lost device, or problematic update. The following table outlines what to expect from each major backup method on the iPhone 6s.
| Method | Where backup is stored | Encryption available | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| iTunes backup (USB) | Computer hard drive | Yes with backup password | Full device copy, app data, settings |
| iCloud backup | Apple cloud storage | Encrypted in transit and at rest | Automated offsite backup, device settings |
| Third-party tools | Computer or cloud, depending on tool | Varies by tool | Selective backup, faster access to files |
Connect And Open iTunes
Start by connecting your iPhone 6s to your computer with the original Lightning cable. On Windows, open iTunes if it does not launch automatically. On macOS Catalina and later, open Finder and select your device under Locations. On macOS Mojave and earlier, use iTunes from your Applications folder.
Backup Methods
Back up using iTunes on Windows and macOS
With the device connected and iTunes open, click the device icon near the top left. Choose This Computer in the Backups section, then select Encrypt Local Backup if you want to include Health and HomeKit data. Click Back Up Now to start the process.
Back up using Finder on macOS Catalina and later
After connecting your iPhone 6s, select it in Finder. Under Backups, choose Back up all of the files on your iPhone to this Mac. Check Encrypt local backup to protect sensitive content, then click Back Up.
Manage Backup Settings
Exclude apps from backup
Some apps, such as podcast or streaming clients, let you disable their data from backups. In iTunes or Finder, open the Apps list for your device, find the app, and drag the app data out of the backup area if you want to save space.
Verify backup size
After the backup finishes, check its size on your computer to confirm that large photo libraries and app data were included. Larger backups indicate more complete protection, but may take longer to create and restore.
Final Recommendations
- Schedule regular backups after major changes to settings or app installs.
- Use encryption to protect Health, HomeKit, and website passwords.
- Keep at least one recent local backup on your computer.
- Combine with an iCloud backup for offsite redundancy.
- Verify backup integrity by checking file size and restore tests.
FAQ
Reader questions
Why does my backup stop at 99 percent on iPhone 6s?
This usually happens due to interrupted USB connections or corrupted backup files. Disconnect and reconnect the cable, restart both devices, and try again with encryption enabled for a consistent backup.
Can I back up my iPhone 6s without using Wi-Fi?
Yes, a USB connection to your computer with iTunes or Finder creates a full local backup even when Wi-Fi is off. This method is often faster and includes more app data than Wi-Fi backups.
How do I restore from an encrypted computer backup?
Connect your iPhone 6s to the computer that holds the encrypted backup, open iTunes or Finder, choose Restore Backup, and select the correct backup file. You must enter the backup password if you used encryption.
Will updating iOS delete my computer backup?
Your existing backups remain on the computer until you delete them manually. If you restore to a newer version of iOS using an old backup, you may be prompted to update the backup format during the process.