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jdlarkin87
User level: Level 1 (18 points)

iTunes not backing up iPhone with 5-Step Backup process

iPhone 17 Pro - iOS 27

iTunes 12.13.11

Windows 11


Up until about a month ago, I would use iTunes to backup my phone to my computer. It would start automatically and do the 5-Step (or Stage) Backup process where Step/Stage 2 was what took the longest because it was the actual backup.


About 2 weeks ago, my computer ran into a problem that forced me to reinstall Windows. Everything is refreshed and up-to-date again. However, when I plug my phone into the computer, iTunes does nothing. I have to manually click Back Up Now, and even then, it doesn't do the 5-Step Backup process.


I have selected Back Up to My Computer in iTunes, restarted my computer, and restarted my phone. Nothing works.


How do I get iTunes to backup my phone with the 5-Step Backup process again? TIA.

Posted on Sep 15, 2026 4:21 PM

3 replies

PreCognition
User level: Level 6 (12,236 points)

Sep 15, 2026 7:31 PM in response to jdlarkin87

The “Step 1 of 5 / Step 2 of 5” display was the sync process, with the backup occurring as one stage of that sync. Back Up Now can create a backup without running through all five sync stages.


Since Windows was reinstalled, I’d check two things. First, see whether the Apple Devices app is now installed. Apple currently recommends using Apple Devices on Windows for iPhone backups; iTunes is used if Apple Devices isn’t installed. → How to back up your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch with Windows - Apple Support


Then check the automatic sync setting. In Apple Devices, select the iPhone > General > Automatically sync when this iPhone is connected. → Turn automatic syncing on or off on Windows - Apple Support


Most importantly, after clicking Back Up Now, check the date and time shown for the latest backup. If that updates, the backup is working even though you no longer see the old five-step sequence.

jdlarkin87 Author
User level: Level 1 (18 points)

Sep 16, 2026 2:56 PM in response to PreCognition

Extremely helpful!! Thank you very much!!

PreCognition
User level: Level 6 (12,236 points)

Sep 16, 2026 3:12 PM in response to jdlarkin87

You’re very welcome! I’m glad that helped and that we could clear up the difference between the backup and sync process.


Thanks for letting me know!

Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256357647