How to Change iTunes Backup Location on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

When you back up your iPhone or iPad using iTunes (or Finder on macOS), the backups are stored by default in your system drive (usually C:\ drive). While this works for many, it can quickly eat up valuable storage — especially if your iPhone has gigabytes of photos, apps, and data.

The good news? You can change the iTunes backup location in Windows 11 to another drive, such as **D:\ or E:**, to free up space and better organize your files. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you why and how to change the iTunes backup location safely, along with troubleshooting tips to avoid errors.

Summary: Key Takeaways

iTunes backups are stored in the C:\Users[YourUser]\Apple\MobileSync\Backup folder by default.
You can move the iTunes backup location using a symbolic link (symlink) in Windows 11.
Changing backup location helps free up space on your main system drive.
Steps involve creating a new backup folder, moving old backups, and redirecting iTunes to the new location.
Always test the new backup location before deleting the old one.

Why Change the iTunes Backup Location in Windows 11?

Here are the most common reasons:

Low storage on C:\ drive – iPhone backups can easily exceed 10 GB.
Better organization – keeping iTunes data on a dedicated drive.
Performance – using a faster SSD or external storage.
Backup management – easier to manage multiple iOS device backups.

Think of it as moving your wardrobe to a bigger closet — same clothes, but now more breathing room.

Default iTunes Backup Location in Windows 11

By default, iTunes stores backups in this folder:

For example, if your Windows username is John, the path will be:

Step-by-Step: How to Change iTunes Backup Location on Windows 11

Now, let’s walk through the process.

Step 1: Close iTunes

Before making any changes, ensure iTunes is completely closed.

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
End any iTunes processes if running.

Step 2: Create a New Backup Folder

Open File Explorer.
Navigate to the drive where you want to store backups (e.g., D:).
Create a folder named something like:

D:\iTunesBackup

Step 3: Move Existing Backup (Optional)

Navigate to the old backup location:

C:\Users\[YourUser]\Apple\MobileSync
Find the Backup folder.
Copy it to the new location (D:\iTunesBackup).
Rename the old folder in *C:* to Backup_old (just in case).

Step 4: Create a Symbolic Link

This is the trick that redirects iTunes to the new folder.

Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click and choose Run as administrator.
In Command Prompt, enter the following command (adjust paths accordingly):

mklink /J "C:\Users\[YourUser]\Apple\MobileSync\Backup" "D:\iTunesBackup"
Example:

mklink /J "C:\Users\John\Apple\MobileSync\Backup" "D:\iTunesBackup"
Press Enter.
If successful, you’ll see:

Junction created for C:\Users\John\Apple\MobileSync\Backup <<===>> D:\iTunesBackup

Step 5: Verify the New Backup Location

Open iTunes.
Connect your iPhone.
Perform a manual backup (click your device > Back Up Now).
Navigate to your new folder (D:\iTunesBackup) and check if new files appear.

Step 6: Delete the Old Backup Folder (Optional)

Once you’ve confirmed everything works fine:

Delete the old Backup_old folder from *C:* to reclaim space.

⚠️ Tip: Keep it for at least one successful backup cycle before deleting, just in case.

Troubleshooting: Common Issues

iTunes Still Saves to Old Location

Double-check the symbolic link command.
Ensure no typo in username or folder paths.

Access Denied Error

Make sure you ran Command Prompt as Administrator.

Backup Fails After Moving

Check if the new drive has enough free space.
Avoid using external drives that disconnect easily.

Alternative Method: Use Third-Party Tools

If you’re not comfortable with Command Prompt, some third-party tools like iMazing or CopyTrans Shelbee allow you to manage and move iTunes backups more easily. However, these may come at a cost.

Comparison Table: Default vs Custom Backup Location

Feature	Default (C:)	Custom (D:, E:, External)
Storage space	Limited (system drive only)	Flexible (larger drives)
Performance	Standard	Depends on drive speed
Ease of setup	Automatic	Manual setup required
Safety	At risk if system crashes	Safer if on separate drive

Pro Tips

Always keep at least one backup in a safe location.
Use OneDrive or external HDD/SSD for extra security.
Regularly test backups by restoring them to ensure they’re not corrupted.
For multiple Apple devices, label folders by device name to stay organized.

Conclusion

Changing the iTunes backup location on Windows 11 is a smart way to free up space, boost performance, and better manage your files. By using a symbolic link (mklink), you can seamlessly redirect backups to another drive without confusing iTunes.

Just remember to back up safely, test the new location, and keep at least one additional copy for emergencies.

Now, the next time iTunes creates a backup, it will go straight to your new drive — leaving your C:\ drive uncluttered.

FAQs About Changing iTunes Backup Location in Windows 11

1. Can I change iTunes backup location without Command Prompt?
Not directly. iTunes doesn’t have a built-in setting, but you can use third-party tools.

2. Is it safe to move iTunes backups?
Yes, as long as you copy files correctly and test backups before deleting the old ones.

3. Can I use an external drive for iTunes backups?
Yes, but avoid disconnecting it during backups or restores.

4. Will future iTunes updates affect the symbolic link?
No, symbolic links remain valid even after iTunes updates.

5. Can I move only some backups to another location?
No, iTunes only supports one default backup folder at a time.