How to back up your Mac
Find out how to create a backup of the files on your Mac.
Use Time Machine to back up automatically
Time Machine is the built-in backup feature of your Mac. If you have a USB drive or other storage device, Time Machine can use it to back up all of your files automatically, including apps, music, photos, emails and documents. You can then use your backup to recover your files, including older files, files that have been deleted or files that are no longer accessible.
Sync and store data with iCloud
You can also use iCloud to sync and access data across all of your devices that are signed in to iCloud with the same Apple ID. iCloud keeps your photos, videos, contacts, calendars, notes, passwords, and more safe, backed up automatically and available anywhere you go.
Use iCloud settings to set up which of your apps sync and store data with iCloud.
Use iCloud Drive to store other files in iCloud, including files in your Desktop and Documents folders.
Storing files in iCloud will use storage space in your iCloud storage plan. If you reach your iCloud storage limit, you can buy more iCloud storage directly from your Apple device or make more iCloud storage available. You can also archive or make copies of the information stored in iCloud so you have an extra copy of that information.
Copy files to another storage device manually
Back up files, such as photos, videos and documents, manually by simply dragging them from your Mac to a USB drive or other external storage device. To restore them, drag them back to your Mac.
Use a third-party backup utility
Other backup utilities are widely available from the App Store and other sources. Some are designed to back up all of your data; others will back up specific kinds of files, such as photos or emails. Some are designed to back up to a USB drive or other external storage device; others can back up to a cloud-based service. Follow the instructions included with the utility.
Information about products not manufactured by Apple, or independent websites not controlled or tested by Apple, is provided without recommendation or endorsement. Apple assumes no responsibility with regard to the selection, performance or use of third-party websites or products. Apple makes no representations regarding third-party website accuracy or reliability. Contact the vendor for additional information.
