Backing up an iPad through iTunes involves connecting the iPad to a computer with iTunes installed via a USB cable. This allows the iPad's information to be backed up and stored on the computer rather than just being synced. If the iPad is ever wiped or a new one is obtained, the backup on the computer can be used to restore all of the information. The process involves connecting the iPad to the computer with iTunes open, going to the iPad tab, clicking the summary tab, selecting "This Computer" under backups, and then clicking "Back up now".