iCloud Mastered

Stay connected with Apple’s online service

Once you invest in an Apple product, whether it’s a Mac, an iPhone or an iPad, you tend to find yourself investing in more of Apple’s ecosystem. If that’s the case, you want all your devices to work well together, to make using them and your various apps as seamless as possible.

That’s what iCloud does for you. From storing photos and videos (and making sure you can access them anywhere), to keeping all your documents and data synced and giving you the power to collaborate with colleagues.

With email, iOS backups, top-notch security, and plenty more, iCloud provides a simple and efficient way to use your Apple kit in harmony.

Here you’ll learn just how easy it is to make the most of iCloud, and ensure you’re not overlooking its many helpful capabilities.

1 How do I set up iCloud?

If you didn’t create an account when you set up your Mac, iPhone or iPad, do so now. On your Mac, go to System Preferences’ iCloud pane; or, on iOS, open Settings, tap your name at the top of the first screen, then tap iCloud. If you already have an account, log in.

2 Can I access iCloud from a PC?

Yes. Point your browser at iCloud.com to access all its services through their web interfaces. There’s a Windows utility that will sync your photos, bookmarks and email account settings, as well as sharing calendar entries and tasks.

3 What does iCloud do?

As well as storing your personal info, including calendars, contacts, reminders, notes and files, iCloud gives you an email address, plus access to online versions of the iWork apps – Pages, Numbers and Keynote. It also acts as a way for thirdparty apps to sync your data.

4 Is iCloud secure?

Yes. Security is tight, and it’s bolstered by optional two-factor authentication (2FA) that requires you to enter a security code when logging in through a new device. Download our PDF guide to setting it up from bit.ly/ml_2fa_guide. or turn to page 21 to find out more.

5 Do I have to use iCloud to sync files?

No. It will live happily alongside Dropbox, Box and their rivals, which you can even access through iOS’s Files app. You can continue using other download stores such as the Kindle Store and Amazon Music in their respective apps/websites.

6 Can I use iCloud to back up my files?

Yes and no. Your iOS device can back up to iCloud when connected to both power and Wi-Fi, but the Mac can’t. As changes to files in iCloud Drive propagate to all your devices, storing files there isn’t a replacement for a backup regimen.