Apple has recently removed the functionality from Windows iTunes to backup apps locally. The only way they offer now is via internet – iCloud. I often have limited internet access so that option is not suitable. Also I feel much better when I can easily and reliably restore the iPad to when everything was functioning perfectly. For example, update an app to find out there's a bug or some new functionality that makes things worse in some way. With a local backup it would be easy to go back and forth between the versions, and you don't have to depend on anything.
The solution would most likely involve jail breaking and that's fine, but I couldn't find actual information on whether it is in fact possible on a jailboken iPad and if so how. Bunch of sites recommend third party software and when you go on their respective sites they say things like "manage apps, backup app data, images etc" iTunes already does all of this.
Thanks!
Best Answer
This article from OSXDaily Get iTunes 12.6.3 with App Store for Mac and Windows suggests to download the special 12.6.3 version, which restores the previous lost functionality. Do not know if works without internet in your case.
Also, the newest version 12.7, when connecting the first time a device, asks if you like to restore the old feature - this was the behaviour in my case.
Direct link to this version of iTunes download page: https://support.apple.com/kb/HT208079