Clone/backup computer with Disk Utility in Big Sur

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Level 1

134 points

Clone/backup computer with Disk Utility in Big Sur

Hi:

Have a MBP that I usually regularly backup using totally awesome SuperDuper. However, SuperDuper doesn't work in Big Sur (which I just upgraded to). So I tried to do the backup the old fashioned way in Disk Utility using Restore and an external drive that is mounted on the desktop. All goes fine until it actually tries to run the backup, and then the process fails with this error:

"The source volume cannot be restored because it has a broken seal"

1) Does anyone know what this means?

2) More importantly, can anyone suggest a way to backup my MBP?

Thanks much!

MacBook Pro 13″, macOS 10.15

Posted on Nov 21, 2020 11:13 AM

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Answer 1

Best reply

babowa

Level 9

78,151 points

Jan 5, 2021 5:53 PM in response to CharPatton

Actually, it is really easy to use; I've been using it for many years. You can - but do not have to - use advanced features. You can simply do a simple full clone without needing to set up anything. Or you can set it up and have it do things automatically. I actually prefer the manual method.

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Answer 2

babowa

Level 9

78,151 points

Nov 21, 2020 11:17 AM in response to CharPatton

I am unable to answer your question re. DU; however, the only backup I've heard of that works with Big Sur at this point is Time machine. I am waiting for CarbonCopyCloner and SuperDuper to get the problems worked out.

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Answer 3

Dec 27, 2020 12:46 PM in response to CharPatton

The seal has to do with the new way, adopted in macOS 11 (Big Sur) in which Apple encrypts the System - and so adds security by making its files inaccessible to users.

This has to do with the advances in the Apple Filing System (APFS). Carbon Copy Cloner works well on APFS volumes up to and including 11.1

Suggest using that. Good luck :-)

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Answer 4

tbirdvet

Level 6

13,797 points

Dec 27, 2020 1:30 PM in response to CharPatton

You can use Carbon Copy Cloner latest release.. I have used it and no issues. Just be sure to follow the process. If you have a new M1 Mac then the process is in two steps: 1) Copy data vol to drive and 2) use recovery to install Big Sur on the drive and you are all set.

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Answer 5

CharPatton Author

Level 1

134 points

Jan 5, 2021 5:49 PM in response to CharPatton

Thanks much. Have heard great things about CCC, but have invested years learning SuperDuper so am SuperDuper will update to Big Sur so I don't have to learn a new program!

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Clone/backup computer with Disk Utility in Big Sur

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