3 Ways | How to Restore Files from iCloud

Wondering how to restore files from iCloud backup? Depending on different scenarios, this guide will show you how to restore files from iCloud in three methods.

Demi by Demi Updated December 20, 2023
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iCloud, Apple's cloud storage service, plays a crucial role in securely backing up and synchronizing files across Apple devices. Whether you've recently set up a new device, need to selectively restore specific files, or have accidentally deleted important data, knowing how to restore files from iCloud is essential.

how to restore files from icloud

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore three effective ways to restore files from iCloud, catering to different scenarios and preferences.

How to restore files from iCloud backup during setup

If you have got a new iPhone, restoring files from an iCloud backup during the initial device setup is a seamless process. This method restores all data from the chosen iCloud backup, including apps, settings, and files, providing a comprehensive solution during the device setup. Follow the steps below to know how to restore files from iCloud to iPhone during setup.

Step 1: Set Up Your Device
Power on your new or recently reset device and follow the on-screen instructions until you reach the Apps & Data screen during the setup process.

Step 2: Choose "Restore from iCloud Backup"
On the Apps & Data screen, select Restore from iCloud Backup.

click restore from icloud backup

Step 3: Sign In to iCloud
Enter your Apple ID and password to sign in to iCloud. This should be the same Apple ID used to create the iCloud backup.

Step 4: Select Backup to Restore
Choose the relevant iCloud backup from the list of available backups. These backups are sorted by date. Select the one that contains the files you want to restore.

select backup to restore

Step 5: Wait for the Restoration Process
The device will begin restoring from the selected iCloud backup. The time required depends on the size of the backup and your internet connection speed.

Step 6: Complete the Setup
Follow the remaining setup steps, such as enabling Face ID, until the process is complete.

How to restore files from iCloud selectively

Unlike traditional methods that may involve restoring an entire device or a complete backup, FoneTool empowers you to restore only the specific files you need from your iCloud backup. This targeted approach is particularly advantageous when you want to restore specific data without affecting the entire device's content.

We will explore the step-by-step process of how to restore files from iCloud to desktop via FoneTool. Firstly, free download the software to your computer and follow the steps below to make it.

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Step 1. Launch FoneTool, and click My iCloud > Sign in with your iCloud account > Enter the verification code to confirm.

sign in icloud account

Step 2. Click Manage iCloud > Check each icon like Photos to preview and select the iCloud files you’d like to restore > Click Download button at the top of the screen to continue.

choose photos to download

Wondering how to restore files from iCloud Drive? Tap iCloud Drive, and you can restore selective documents from iCloud Drive.

Step 3. Finally, you can choose a destination to save all of your iCloud files, and click Download to begin the task.

confirm download

📌 More functions
• To get downloaded iCloud files to your iPhone, you can head to Phone Transfer > PC to iPhone in FoneTool to import files to your iPhone.
• In one click, you can also rely on FoneTool to achieve iPhone to iPhone transfer without iCloud backup, which can be helpful if your iCloud backup didn’t contain all needed files.

go to transfer

How to restore deleted files from iCloud web

If you've accidentally deleted files and need to recover them, the iCloud web interface offers a convenient solution. Please be noted that this method is only useful for recovering files that were deleted within the last 30 days.

Step 1. Go to iCloud.com and log in with your Apple ID.

Step 2. Once logged in, select the menu button (rectangle with white squares) in the top-right corner. From the pop-up, choose Drive to open iCloud Drive.

icloud site

Step 3. To see recently deleted files, select Recently Deleted from the left sidebar.

Step 4. Select Recover All at the top to restore all deleted files. Alternatively, if you're only interested in one or multiple files, click on the file(s) and select Recover at the top.

recover files icloud drive recently deleted

You can also go to Photos to locate deleted photos to recover permanently deleted photos and other types of deleted files in iCloud.

Summary

That’s all for how to restore files from iCloud in different scenarios. Whether you're setting up a new device, selectively restoring specific files, or recovering deleted items, the step-by-step guides provided in this article offer clear instructions.

By understanding and utilizing these methods, you can navigate the iCloud ecosystem with confidence, ensuring that your files are secure, accessible, and easily recoverable when needed.

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