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can time machine be used with iCloud

Can i configure Time machine to automatically backup to iCloud? this seems like a sensible way to manage backups

Posted on Feb 16, 2021 4:30 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Feb 16, 2021 4:32 PM

No. Only with an external device. See: Backup disks you can use with Time Machine - Apple Support


Apple offers iCloud Backup for iPhones and iPads but not for Mac computers.


It is possible to sync data from a Mac to iCloud if you turn on those options (e.g., iCloud Photos, iCloud Drive including the Desktop & Documents option). Syncing has some of the benefits of a backup (and the benefit of being offsite) but is not the same as a backup. Major differences include the fact that not everything on your Mac can be synced and the fact that if you delete something, accidentally or otherwise, there is only a limited time period (30 days in most cases) during which it can be recovered.


Also see: https://support.apple.com/mac-backup


And more information on syncing in:

Set up and use iCloud Photos - Apple Support

and

iCloud Drive FAQ - Apple Support

3 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Feb 16, 2021 4:32 PM in response to Robert Leyland

No. Only with an external device. See: Backup disks you can use with Time Machine - Apple Support


Apple offers iCloud Backup for iPhones and iPads but not for Mac computers.


It is possible to sync data from a Mac to iCloud if you turn on those options (e.g., iCloud Photos, iCloud Drive including the Desktop & Documents option). Syncing has some of the benefits of a backup (and the benefit of being offsite) but is not the same as a backup. Major differences include the fact that not everything on your Mac can be synced and the fact that if you delete something, accidentally or otherwise, there is only a limited time period (30 days in most cases) during which it can be recovered.


Also see: https://support.apple.com/mac-backup


And more information on syncing in:

Set up and use iCloud Photos - Apple Support

and

iCloud Drive FAQ - Apple Support

can time machine be used with iCloud

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