Hi, I want to backup my computer and I've heard that the best thing is use Time Machine. If a connect my 1TB HDD with 500 GB remaining and use it for the Time Machine Backup, does Time Machine delete my old data in the Hard Disk?, Or the backup and the files on the HDD stay?
MacBook Pro (13-inch Late 2011), Mac OS X (10.7.2)
Time Machine has to erase all the existing files in the external drive to make backups. Note that any file in the external drive may break the Time Machine structure. The same applies if you make clones.
If you want to store files apart from the backups, you can create a second volume or buy another external hard drive
Thanks! So I will buy another HDD. So what's the easiest way to backup my macbook?
The easiest way to make backups is Time Machine > http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1427
Define "easiest".
Easiest to DO the backup, use Time Machine onto a Time Capsule. As long as the Mac is not turned off, will occur automatically and without human intervention (apart from your initial set up of the parameters). Portable could even be sleeping, but can be set up to awaken and do the deed. And the Time Capsule is reachable wirelessly, so no physical connection is necessary.
Easiest to RECOVER the Mac using the backup is cloning a bootable clone back into the fritzed internal drive. Recovering from a Time Machine backup, while yielding roughly similar results if done right, will take longer.
Those are the extremes. Can have some middle ground depending on your priorities. Holler for details.
Does Time Machine delete my old data from the External HDD?
