Snapshots.db is 5.2 GB and won't stop growing; how can I stop this?

yes, local snapshots.

http://support.apple.com/kb/ht4878

http://pondini.org/TM/30.html

how to turn them off:

http://osxdaily.com/2011/09/28/disable-time-machine-local-backups-in-mac-os-x-li on/

Local snapshots are useful in a very narrow almost non-existent perspective. Essentially they are not useful.

make constant time machine backups and they will not build up, either that or turn them off.

angelofhistory wrote:

Or should I just turn them off and back on?

I cant make that decision for you, however from a pure perspective of data backups and genuine data archives, local snapshots dont even come close to qualifying for either.

In the scheme of data protection, local snapshots fall into the arena and class of a tea cozy, useful on an almost non-existent level.

backing up to the very same device (the SSD) which can fail means SSD failure, means they both fail, ...your data and your 'local snapshots'.

always keep at the minimum 2 copies of vital data OFF the computer, 2 is 1 and 1 is none.

and local snapshots and anything IN the computer on its SSD qualifies as nothing.

Local snapshots are useful in the event that files are deleted or the file becomes corrupted and you are away from your backup disk... Something that happens quite often, especially with a MacBook Air.

Austin

"especially with a MacBook Air" is a wholly incorrect statement.

local snapshots serve a purpose, however their arbitrary save-feature and nature make them both unwelcome and unnecessary in the extreme to anyone following correct data backup plans and methods.

Methodology to protect your data. Backups vs. Archives. Long-term data protection

You should make a TM backup and wail for the clearing of the local snapshots database before disabling the local snapshots.

Or, as mentioned, just make timely TM backups and not be concerned at all with local snapshots knowing they will vanish of their own accord due to ext. HD Time machine backups.

😊

No, I am saying MacBook Air is a VERY portable computer and therefore it is only reasonable it would be away from the Time Machine backup disk more often than any other kind of computer besides another kind of notebook.

Austin

make a time machine backup to clear the snapshots (eventually)

restart and re-verify the snapshots are cleared.....if same, SMC reset and re-verify

SMC reset

1. Shut down the computer.
2. Plug in the MagSafe power adapter to a power source, connecting it to the Mac if its not already connected.
3. On the built-in keyboard, press the (left side) Shift-Control-Option keys and the power button at the same time.
4. Release all the keys and the power button at the same time.
5. Press the power button to turn on the computer.
   Note: The LED on the MagSafe power adapter may change states or temporarily turn off when you reset the SMC.

That file has absolutely nothing to do with Time Machine or local snapshots.

Mavericks faux paus 😐

/private/var/db/systemstats/snapshots.db

https://discussions.apple.com/thread/5735772%29:

It's a log. You may be able to reduce its size by the following the instructions in my comment linked above.