Getting Started with iCloud on Your Windows PC – wiki基地

Getting Started with iCloud on Your Windows PC

For Apple users who also operate a Windows PC, iCloud for Windows bridges the gap between your devices, allowing seamless access to your important data directly from your computer. This application enables you to synchronize photos, files, contacts, calendars, and even passwords, making your digital life more integrated.

System Requirements

Before you begin, ensure your Windows PC meets the following specifications:

• Operating System: Microsoft Windows 10 or later (64-bit only).
• Outlook: Outlook 2016 or newer is essential if you plan to sync Mail, Contacts, and Calendars.
• Browsers for Passwords and Bookmarks: For syncing passwords and bookmarks, you’ll need Chrome 100 or later, Edge 100 or later, or Firefox 92 or later.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up iCloud for Windows

Follow these steps to get iCloud up and running on your Windows machine:

1. Download and Install iCloud for Windows

1. Access the Microsoft Store: The easiest way to get iCloud for Windows is through the Microsoft Store. Open the Store app on your PC.
2. Search for iCloud: In the search bar, type “iCloud” and press Enter.
3. Select and Install: Locate the official “iCloud” application listing from Apple Inc. Click “Get” or “Install” to download and install the application on your system.
4. Launch the Application: Once the installation is complete, you can click “Open” in the Microsoft Store or find “iCloud” in your Start menu and launch it.

2. Sign In with Your Apple ID

1. Enter Credentials: The iCloud for Windows application will prompt you to sign in. Enter the Apple ID and password that you use on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
2. Two-Factor Authentication (if applicable): If you have two-factor authentication enabled for your Apple ID, you will receive a verification code on one of your trusted Apple devices. Enter this code into the iCloud for Windows app to complete the sign-in process.

3. Choose Features to Sync

After successfully signing in, iCloud for Windows will present you with a list of features you can synchronize:

• iCloud Drive: Access your documents and files stored in iCloud Drive directly from File Explorer.
• Photos: Sync your iCloud Photos and share them with Microsoft Photos.
• Mail, Contacts, and Calendars: Integrate these with Outlook (if installed).
• Bookmarks: Keep your browser bookmarks consistent across devices.
• Passwords: Securely access your iCloud Passwords in compatible browsers.

Tick the checkboxes next to the features you wish to enable. Once your selections are made, click “Apply” or “Finish Setup.”

Managing Specific iCloud Features

iCloud Drive

Your iCloud Drive files will appear as a dedicated folder in Windows File Explorer. You can open, edit, and save files here just as you would with any other local file. Changes made on your PC will automatically sync to iCloud Drive and your other Apple devices.

iCloud Photos

With iCloud Photos enabled, your entire photo and video library from iCloud will be accessible. Photos will appear in Microsoft Photos and a dedicated iCloud Photos folder within File Explorer, often organized by year. You can also customize download and upload locations in the iCloud for Windows settings.

Mail, Contacts, and Calendars

If you selected these options and have Outlook installed, your iCloud Mail account, contacts, and calendar events will automatically integrate into your Outlook application. This allows you to manage all your communications and schedules from one place on your PC.

Bookmarks

To ensure your bookmarks stay synchronized across your Apple devices and your Windows PC, you’ll need to install the “iCloud Bookmarks” extension for your web browser (Chrome, Edge, or Firefox). This extension facilitates the sync process.

Passwords

Similar to bookmarks, iCloud Passwords can be managed on your Windows PC through a browser extension. Install the “iCloud Passwords” extension for Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge to securely access and auto-fill your saved passwords.

Important Compatibility Notes

• Managed Apple Accounts: iCloud for Windows does not support Managed Apple Accounts.
• Advanced Data Protection: If you’re using Advanced Data Protection, you’ll need iCloud for Windows 14.1 or later to sign in. For versions 14.2 or later, your trusted Apple device must be within Bluetooth range or on the same Wi-Fi network as your PC. Temporarily disabling VPNs might be necessary during sign-in.
• Security Keys: If you use security keys for your Apple ID, iCloud for Windows 15 or later is required for sign-in.

Alternative Access: iCloud.com

If for any reason you prefer not to install the iCloud for Windows application, or if your system doesn’t meet the requirements, you can still access many iCloud services. Simply open a web browser, navigate to iCloud.com, and sign in with your Apple ID. From there, you can manage your Photos, Mail, iCloud Drive, Contacts, and use iWork applications directly in your browser.

Conclusion

iCloud for Windows is a powerful tool that enhances the interoperability between your Apple ecosystem and your Windows PC. By following these straightforward steps, you can ensure your most important data is always accessible, up-to-date, and within reach, regardless of the device you’re using.