In iTunes (Windows 7) Encrypt local backup is checked, and I can't remember the password. I don't need to restore my iPad; I just want to be able to back it up. If I attempt to uncheck this, iTunes prompts for my password. How can I start clean (without losing any data from my iPad, which has not been upgraded to iOS 6)?
IPad – I forgot the Encrypt Local Backup password. How to start over
backupipaditunespassword
Related Question
- How to circumvent a forgotten encrypted iPhone local backup password
- IOS – iPhone backup encryption with password cannot be disabled
- IOS – Backup Encryption Password
- IOS – iTunes local backup of iOS device: can’t disable encryption
- IPad – Restore Backup can this still be done after choosing setup as new
- IPhone – How to find out when and where backup recovery password was set for iPhone backups
Best Answer
From Apple Support:
Warning: If you encrypt an iPhone backup in iTunes and then forget your password, you will not be able to restore from backup and your data will be unrecoverable. If you forget the password, you can continue to back up and use the device, however you will not be able to restore the encrypted backup to any device without the password. You do not need to enter the password for your backup each time you back up or sync.
If you cannot remember the password and want to start again, you must perform a full software restore and when iTunes prompts you to select the backup from which to restore, choose set up as a new device.
I assume it applies also to iPad, and yeah that's a terrible inconvenience for you, but at least it's a definitive answer from the source.
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT4946?viewlocale=en_US&locale=en_US