Can Time Machine backup FROM NAS

I've had TM backup FROM direct attached storage TO NAS, but I'd like to be able to backup FROM an NAS volume (I'm using Synology) TO Time Machine. I've never seen that this is possible. I'm running Big Sur 11.6 on an M-1 iMac.

iMac 24″, macOS 11.6

Posted on Oct 15, 2021 3:07 AM

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9 replies

Oct 15, 2021 5:22 AM in response to wa1oui

You do not really need Time Machine. If the source is a NAS, the destination need not be a TM destination. You can use rsync to backup the NAS to any destination. In macOS Terminal type man rsync to see the manual page of the command.


If you really must use TM to back up this NAS, connect/mount it on a Mac, and then use TM options to include it in a backup. The NAS file system must be one supported by TM - APFS, HFS, FAT, exFAT.


Oct 15, 2021 5:35 AM in response to Loner T

Thanks for the reply. I like the feature of TM that lets me go back to a certain time, otherwise rsync would be a great idea.


You said "If you really must use TM to back up this NAS, connect/mount it on a Mac, and then use TM options to include it in a backup. The NAS file system must be one supported by TM - APFS, HFS, FAT, exFAT.", but the picture you posted shows EXCLUSION options from backup. I haven't yet found a way to attach an NAS drive to TM. DAS all seem to be there by default.

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Can Time Machine backup FROM NAS

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