Time Machine Back-Up
Optimal Mac backup involves storing files on an external hard drive using Time Machine. This method entails copying all files from the Mac's hard drive to a designated backup drive during the initial setup. Routine backups follow, capturing changes since the last backup, and files are only saved again when modified, ensuring efficiency in subsequent backups. Time Machine provides both automatic and manual backup options, offering flexibility in Mac restoration. Follow the steps outlined or refer to Apple for comprehensive guidance on Time Machine backups.
What Kind Of Hard Drive Do I Need ?
For Time Machine backups, a dedicated external hard drive is ideal. Ensure the drive matches or exceeds your Mac's hard drive storage capacity. Opting for double or more is advisable, especially if dealing with numerous large files or extensive backup needs. While spinning disk drives might be slower than solid-state drives, they provide greater storage capacity for the cost.
Format External Hard Drive For MacOS
To back up a Mac using Time Machine, employ an external hard drive formatted for macOS. The formatting process erases all contents on the drive, configuring it for macOS. If prompted during formatting, choose "Use as Backup Disk" to initiate the first backup through the Time Machine preferences window. Follow the outlined steps for formatting your hard drive for Time Machine.
For those without a dedicated Time Machine drive, you can either acquire a new external hard drive or repurpose an existing one. Be aware that reformatting for Time Machine erases all files on the drive. If using a drive with existing files, ensure to back them up before proceeding. Note that drives formatted for NTFS (Windows) may require a Windows PC for backup, while ExFat-formatted drives are compatible with both operating systems.
1. Launch Disk Utility (Applications > Utilities > Disk Utility).
2. Choose the hard drive device and click "Erase" (this action is irreversible and erases everything).
3. Name your drive (e.g., Time Machine Backup), select the Mac OS Extended (Journaled) format, and click "Erase."
Create Time Machine Back-Up
Upon connecting a new or reformatted external hard drive, macOS will inquire about using it for Time Machine backups. Opting for "Use as Backup Disk" in the prompt opens the Time Machine window, initiating the initial backup. If not prompted or if you prefer to choose another drive, access Time Machine preferences (System Preferences > Time Machine) and click "Select Disk." Follow the outlined steps for Mac backup with Time Machine. Keep in mind that the initial backup may take the longest; consult Apple solutions if it exceeds expectations.
For automatic backups, they commence immediately if the "Back Up Automatically" feature is enabled (default setting). To conserve processing power, consider disabling this feature during audio recording or DAW usage. When automatic backups are turned off, manually initiate a backup by selecting "Back Up Now" from the Time Machine taskbar menu.