Q: iCloud Dependance

On #1, obviously without a network connection to a cloud-based service, your data is not accessible. This would apply to any cloud service, not just Apple.

On #2, Apple, like every cloud storage provider, has redundancy in their systems. Your data is stored in multiple locations and protected by backup systems which are protected by other backup systems.

With any cloud based service, the data on the cloud should not be your only copy. It is backup.

Time Machine + local HD + cloud =  3 copies of your data in 2 unique locations.

Time Machine + local HD protects you from HD failure.

Cloud protects you from fire/theft at home/office.

You also might want to consider a clone backup on an external hard drive that is stored off site.

If you use iCloud on your Mac your data IS available whilst you are offline as your mac keeps a local copy which you can therefore work on, the changes you make will sync to the cloud next time you have a connection.

So if the iCloud servers 'Blow Up' you should still be OK, however having said that you should still keep a back up.

It's hidden so you don't go fiddling because if you do it's very easy to break things.

In the Finder hold down the 'alt' key and open the 'Go' menu and select 'Library', the iCloud Drive is maintained within the 'Mobile Documents' Folder.

Needless to say Time Machine knows where it is and should you ever need it, will let you recover documents from back ups of your iCloud drive documents.

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