If you had downloaded a complete backup of iPhone to computer, the backup file as available on your Windows computer can be used to Restore back the data on your iPhone; in case something goes wrong with it.
Another Restore option which is available on a Windows computer; is to completely wipe out all the data and software from iPhone and Restore it as a New Device.
The first option (Restore from Backup) can be used to recover lost messages, photos, notes, contacts and the second option (Set up as New iPhone) can be used to fix an iPhone which is not responding to other troubleshooting steps.
Restore iPhone from Backup on Windows Computer
In order to Restore iPhone from a Backup File stored on a Windows computer, you need to make sure that Apple’s Find My iPhone service is switched-off or disabled on your iPhone.
Another requirement is to make sure that the latest version of “iTunes for Windows” software is available on the computer. If it is not, you can download and install the latest version of iTunes on your computer from Microsoft’s online store.
1. Restore iPhone from Backup on Windows PC
If a previously made Backup of iPhone is available on your computer, it can be used Restore your iPhone at any time by using the following steps.
1. Open iTunes on your computer and plug iPhone to Computer.
2. Click on the Phone icon as it appears in iTunes on the screen of your computer.
3. On the next screen, click on the Summary tab in left-pane. In the right pane, click on Restore Backup button, located under “Manually Backup and Restore” section.
4. On the pop-up, select the iTunes backup File located on your computer and click on the Restore button.
Note: If the Backup File is encrypted, you will be required to enter the password to access the encrypted file.
5. Wait for iTunes to complete the process of Restoring iPhone from the Backup File.
2. Restore iPhone As New Device on Windows computer
Another option which is available in iTunes is to Restore iPhone as New Device. This method has been designed to completely wipe out all the data and operating system from iPhone and install the latest version of iOS on your device.
1. Open iTunes > Plug iPhone to Computer using its supplied cable.
2. Click on the phone icon as it appears on your computer in iTunes.
3. On the next screen, click on the Summary tab (left-pane) and click on Restore iPhone button in the right-pane.
4. Once you click on Restore iPhone, you will see a pop-up providing you with the option to either Backup or Do Not Backup the Settings, before Restoring your device.
5. After the Data on your iPhone is wiped out, you should find your device restarting with the “Hello” screen.
6. Follow the onscreen instructions, until you reach “Apps & Data” screen.
7. On “Apps & Data” screen, you will find the option to “Set Up as New iPhone” along with the options to Restore iPhone from iCloud Backup and Restore iPhone from iTunes or Local Backup stored on your computer.
8. Select your desired option and follow the onscreen instructions to complete the Restore process.