How to Remove iTunes Backup Encryption With/Without Password

iTunes backup encryption is a security feature that protects your backup data with a password. While it adds an extra layer of protection, many users find themselves struggling to disable it, especially if they forget the iTunes backup password.

Whether you unintentionally enabled it, are dealing with corporate restrictions, or simply want to switch to an unencrypted backup, this guide will show you how to turn off iTunes backup encryption effectively. We'll cover different methods, including solutions without password.

Part 1. What's The Difference Between Standard and Encrypted iTunes Backup

Simply put, the primary difference between standard backup and encrypted back up is the data included and the security level.

The encrypted iTunes backup includes some sensitive data on your iPhone, including your WiFi credentials, browser history, etc. Most importantly, encrypted backups are protected by a password - and this is the only way to access them.

On the other hand, a standard (unencrypted) backup still saves most of your important data, including App data, photos, Memos, etc. Unlike encrypted backups, a standard backup can be restored on a new device without password.

While encrypted backups offer stronger security, they also come with a major downside - if you forget the password, you lose access to your backup. This is why many users prefer to disable iTunes backup encryption to avoid the risk of losing their data.

So, how to turn off backup encryption in iTunes? You can watch the video below for a step-by-step tutorial or continue reading for detailed instructions.

Video Guide: How to Remove iTunes Backup Encryption

Part 2. How to Uncheck Encrypt Local Backup in iTunes with Password

If you have the password but just don't remember where to turn off backup encryption, follow these steps to uncheck "Encrypt Local Backup" in iTunes:

Step 1. Connect your iPhone to your computer and open iTunes (or Finder on macOS Catalina and later).
Step 2. Click on the iPhone device icon in iTunes/Finder's left sidebar.
Step 3. In the Summary/General tab, locate the Backups section.
Step 4. Uncheck Encrypt local backup and enter your password.
Step 5. Click Done and the encryption should be removed now.

Part 3. How to Remove Encryption on iTunes Backup Without Password

If you can't remember the password, don't worry. Here are two ways to disable iTunes backup encryption without a password.

Way 1. Use Professional Tools to Remove iTunes Backup Encryption

To remove iTunes backup encryption without password, TunesKit iPhone Unlocker offers an easy and effective solution. This professional tool is designed to help remove iTunes backup encryption without data loss. Most importantly, it supports a wide range of iPhone models running iOS 9-18.

With a small investment, you can remove Apple ID, Screen Time passcode, MDM supervision, and more locks on iPhone except iTunes backup encryption. Click the Try It Free button to get a comprehensive iPhone Unlocker now!

Key Features of TunesKit iPhone Unlocker

• Remove encryption password from iTunes backup without data loss
• Support iPhone models running iOS 9-18, as well as iPad and iPod
• Bypass iPhone screen lock, Time Limit, Apple ID, MDM restrictions quickly
• User-friendly interface with a high success rate

Try It Free 600,000+ Downloads

Try It Free 600,000+ Downloads

Here's how to uncheck Encrypt Local Backup in iTunes without password via TunesKit iPhone Unlocker.

Step 1Connect iPhone to Mac/Windows Computer

After opening the TunesKit iPhone Unlocker on Mac/Win, click Remove iTunes Backup Encryption on the main interface. Then, plug into the Lighting or USB-C cable to your computer and your iPhone with encrypted iTunes backup.

Step 2Remove iTunes Backup Encryption without Password

Once connected, ensure the Find My feature is disabled on your iPhone. If not, please go to your iPhone Settings > [Your Profile] > Find My, and toggle it off. Then, click Start on TunesKit iPhone Unlocker to remove encryption password from iTunes backup.

Step 3 Confirm Encrypt Local Backup Is Unchecked in iTunes

TunesKit iPhone Unlocker will process the removal automatically in a few minutes. Once done, it will show "Removed Successfully" on the interface. You can click Done, then open iTunes/Finder to confirm that "Encrypt Local Backup" is now unchecked. You can restore your iTunes backup to iPhone without password.

Way 2. Delete Encrypted Backup on iTunes via Reset All Settings [iOS 11+]

Looking for a free method and don't mind possible data loss? Yes, there is one workaround offered by the official for free! You can delete the encrypted backup by resetting all settings on your iPhone and create a new backup - as long as you're using iOS 11 or later system version.

Step 1. On your iPhone, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
Step 2. Tap Reset and select Reset All Settings.
Step 3. Enter your device passcode and confirm.
Step 4. Your device will restart, and the backup encryption setting will be removed.
Step 5. Connect to iTunes and create a new backup without encryption at iPhone > Summary/General > Backups sections on iTunes.

Note:

✅ Reset All Settings does NOT erase current personal data (such as photos, messages, or apps).

⚠️ However, it will reset Wi-Fi passwords, display settings, sounds, and notifications to default - and delete your previous iTunes backup.

Part 4. More Tips to Secure iTunes Backup After Removing Encryption

Once you've successfully removed iTunes backup encryption, it's important to keep your data secure. Follow these tips to prevent unauthorized access and ensure the safety of your backups.

Tip 1. Store Backups in a Secure And Separate Location

After disabling encryption, your iTunes backup is no longer password-protected, meaning anyone with access to your computer can extract your iPhone data. To prevent data breaches:

✔ Ensure your backups are stored in a secure location (like your own computer) to prevent unauthorized access.
✔ Consider external drives with strong security if the data is very important.
✔ Avoid keeping backups in easily accessible locations to prevent accidental deletion.

Tip 2. Backup Your Data to iCloud or Other Cloud Drives

For added convenience and security, consider backing up your iPhone to iCloud or other cloud storage services. iCloud backups are automatically encrypted, ensuring an extra layer of protection without manual intervention. However, iCloud only provides 5 GB of free storage - so if you have large backups, you may need to upgrade your plan.

Pro Tip:

If your friends or family also use iCloud, consider getting the 2 TB plan and enabling Family Sharing. This allows each member to have their own portion of the 2 TB storage, making it a cost-effective option.

Tip 3. Maintain Updated Security Software on Your Computer

Without encryption, your iTunes backup is more vulnerable to hacking or malware attacks. To prevent unauthorized access:

✔ Avoid downloading software from untrusted websites to minimize security risks.
✔ Install and regularly update antivirus and anti-malware software on your computer.
✔ Enable firewall protection to block potential threats.

By following these precautions, you can keep your iTunes backups safe even after turning off encryption.

Part 5. FAQs on Removing iTunes Backup Encryption

Part 6. Conclusion

This articles introduces 3 methods on how to turn off backup encryption in iTunes. If you remember your password, simply uncheck encrypt local backup in iTunes. However, if the password is forgotten, you may need to reset all settings to delete previous backup or use a professional tool like TunesKit iPhone Unlocker to remove iTunes backup encryption without data loss.

Whatever method you choose, always store your backups securely and keep multiple copies to protect your data!