how to use time machine to backup my mac

Or you can choose to start a new backup instead.īack up automatically. If the storage device contains Time Machine backups from another Mac, you might be asked to claim the existing backups so that they become part of the backups for this Mac.Earlier versions of macOS: Click Select Backup Disk, then follow the onscreen instructions. In Time Machine settings, select your external storage device as your backup destination: macOS Ventura or later: Click the add button (+), then follow the onscreen instructions.Earlier versions of macOS: Choose Apple menu  > System Preferences, then click Time Machine. Open Time Machine settings: macOS Ventura or later: Choose Apple menu  > System Settings, click General in the sidebar, then click Time Machine on the right.When you connect the storage device to your Mac, your Mac might ask if you want to use it for Time Machine backups.

Select your storage device in Time Machine settings If your backup disk doesn't have enough storage space to contain a complete backup, Time Machine will let you know. Ideally, your backup disk should have at least twice the storage capacity of every disk or volume you're backing up.Use this storage device only as your Time Machine backup disk, not for storage of other files.Or learn about other backup disks that you can use with Time Machine. Connect a storage device to use for backupsĬonnect an external storage device to your Mac, such as a USB drive or Thunderbolt drive. Having a backup allows you to restore your Mac from a Time Machine backup if you ever delete your files or can't access them. Use Time Machine, the built-in backup feature of your Mac, to automatically back up your personal data, including apps, music, photos, email, and documents. Learn how to create a backup of the files on your Mac.

How to use time machine to backup my mac