---
id: mac-storage-basics.how-do-i-encrypt-an-iphone-backup-on-a-mac
url: https://storagestudio.us/faq/mac-storage-basics/how-do-i-encrypt-an-iphone-backup-on-a-mac
category: "Mac storage basics"
subcategory: "iPhone and iPad backups and updates"
question: "Why encrypt an iPhone backup on my Mac, and does it use more space?"
alt_questions:
  - "encrypt local backup iphone mac"
  - "encrypted iphone backup size"
  - "what does encrypted backup include"
  - "finder encrypt backup option"
  - "forgot iphone backup password"
short_answer: "Tick Encrypt local backup in Finder. It adds saved passwords, Health and other sensitive data without making the backup much bigger — but you need the password to restore."
tags: ["iphone backup", "encryption", "finder"]
related: ["https://storagestudio.us/faq/mac-storage-basics/should-i-back-up-my-iphone-to-icloud-or-my-mac", "https://storagestudio.us/faq/mac-storage-basics/where-are-iphone-backups-stored-on-a-mac"]
applies_to: "all"
last_reviewed: 2026-10-01
---

# Why encrypt an iPhone backup on my Mac, and does it use more space?

In Finder, select the device and tick **Encrypt local backup** on the General tab. An encrypted backup also includes saved passwords, Wi-Fi settings, Health and other sensitive data that an unencrypted backup leaves out. It doesn't make the backup meaningfully bigger.

Keep the password safe: without it, an encrypted backup can't be restored.