iCloud backups are surely the fastest and simplest way to save and protect your data. By default, your phone is set to back up data to iCloud. But what will happen if this fast and simple system fails to work as you expect?
If you have an issue with iCloud, you will get notified or receive an email telling you about the problem. The most rampant cause is the lack of available space.
Below are ways to help you solve this problem and discover the potential reasons for backup failures.
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Lack Of Available Space
Like I said, lack of storage is one of the main reasons you cannot back up to iCloud. You will get 5GB for free, and for more, you have to subscribe to any of the 3 paid plans (50GB, 200GB, and 2TB).
But, smaller plans can rapidly fill up if your iOS device is set to automatic weekly or monthly backups.
You have to check how much space is available on your iCloud before continuing with the update or get the “Backup to iCloud Failed” message. Open Settings and click on your name at the top of the window. Choose iCloud and you can view if there is any room left.
Manage Storage Options
To receive more space on your iCloud, click “Manage Storage.” The next window lists all the applications that backup to iCloud. You can upgrade storage too plus all the backup be previewed.
Create space for fresh backups by getting rid of the old ones. Click Backups, choose an old backup, then click Delete. If you need to get rid of a backup from a particular app, click on the connected app and choose “Delete Documents & Data.” Confirm your selection by clicking on “Delete” once more and you are set to go.
Be aware that when you select “Delete Documents & Data” the action gets rid of saved documents totally from all connected devices. Therefore be cautious not to get rid of anything you might need.
Check Wi-Fi Connection
A stable Wi-Fi connection is important to wrap up an iCloud backup. You can do a backup through a cellular network, but you will rapidly use all the data in your plan. And though, there are no restrictions on data, cellular network backups can take a long time, and you can receive an error message if network fumbles.
For the inspection of the connection, choose Wi-Fi, and be certain that your iPhone is linked to the right network. If there is any problem with the connection, ensure Wi-Fi is toggled off and on in an attempt to reconnect to the same network. A speed test can also be done to check the connection speed and stability.
After determining that the connection is stable and correct, you can attempt to back up to iCloud again. This is the backup path you should adhere to:
Settings > Your Username > iCloud > iCloud Backup > Back Up Now
Be aware that the iCloud Backup option has to be toggled on for it to do what you want. This will also activate automatic backups when your iOS device is connected to power and Wi-Fi.
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Sign Out, Sign In Again
This option is like a digital on and off switch. Logging out and then in again can actually rectify minor bugs and software faults that stop you from backing up to iCloud. For instance, at times there is an iCloud verification problem that can be solved by signing out.
Click Settings, scroll down and choose Passwords & Accounts. Then scroll down to the bottom of the window and tap Sign Out. A pop-up window will be visible, prompting you to confirm the choice. Click Sign Out once more and you will be directed back to the sign-in window.
Data Protection Concerns
The final sign-out window does say that all your data will be gone or deleted, but you have nothing to be bothered about. Like other cloud services, iCloud retains copies of all the data you save/back up. Meaning they will remain online if you get rid of them from your smartphone.
Even, when you get yourself signed in again, your iOS device will automatically restore the data as nothing happened, there you do not have to be apprehensive about signing out.
Master Reset
If the other solutions are not helpful, resetting all settings could rectify the iCloud backup problem. It is vital to note that this reset does not clear your device from all the data. It simply gets rid of accessibility settings, Wi-Fi passwords, and more system settings that could tamper with the backup.
To begin a reset, click Settings, then General, and then scroll down to the bottom of the page. Select the Reset menu and choose “Reset All Settings.” You will be asked to provide the passcode for your iPhone and confirm the choice in a pop-up window.
Your iOS device will now restart and you need to reconnect to Wi-Fi. You might also be asked to sign back in with your Apple ID. After that, you can continue and try to back up to iCloud once more.
