When you need access to data like contacts, calendar events, and photos across all your devices, iCloud is your best friend. And yet, it’s often our best friends that can really get on our nerves. I know the frustration of an iCloud backup taking so long that I end up canceling it. (Of course, that act of impatience frustrates me even more, and I end up sending myself grainy versions of the photos I was supposed to sync in the first place.)

Under perfect conditions, the iCloud sync process should only take a few seconds. If it feels like it’s taking forever, or you’re just as impatient as I am, here are a few simple steps to make it all go smoothly.

If you have iCloud backups turned on automatically, your device should back up whenever your phone is plugged in, locked, and connected to Wi-Fi. The main reasons for a stuck or slow sync are low power or poor network connection.

For optimal backup speed, make sure all of your devices are connected to a solid Wi-Fi or cellular connection. Whatever your battery percentage, it doesn’t hurt to plug your device into the power source, especially if you’re trying to sync a lot of data.