In macOS you’re able to prefer to optimise your use of local storage by having your Mac automatically offload file cabinet that it is already syncing to iCloud Drive , iCloud Photos , and other services . The logic is that you might have specify local warehousing and dozens to one C of gibibyte of data you do n’t take approach to all the time , such as file away documents and photos from yr past . You want them on - demand — with an active net connection — but not needfully filling your drive .
However , there ’s a freehanded catch : so - cry optimize files are backed up only at iCloud . Because there ’s only a local placeholder for the synced file , Time Machine , third - company sync and backup software , and internet - host backup services can not make copies .
You might determine that ’s o.k. ! You trust the integrity of Apple ’s data substance and the caliber of their military operation . While Apple does n’t offer insight into how they protect your data point , it ’s definitely the shell that the written matter has multiple copies of your datum store in three or more different locations to avoid the risk of data loss due to hardware , fire or other accident , innate cataclysm , or a cyber or real - world attempt .
Control whether or not your Mac storage is “optimized” in the iCloud portion of the Apple ID preference pane.
Even if that ’s enough for you , still read on to be sure your backup strategy is effective .
The drawbacks of relying on iCloud-only offloaded files
Making iCloud your only copy for synced data that ’s pushed off your drives or gadget for optimisation has drawback :
you’re able to “ game ” optimization in one specific way , though you ca n’t guarantee it will figure out to back up all the file you want : the most recent files you create or modify will almost always be indorse up quickly by Time Machine or an on-line service that oftentimes check for modified files . That will leave you with an archived copybeforemacOS could determine to hit the Indian file for optimisation .
The good way to ensure you have a full backup with this method acting is tonot enable any optimizationuntil you have your first sodding musical accompaniment performed on all the overhaul you be after to use .
Control whether or not your Mac storage is “optimized” in the iCloud portion of the Apple ID preference pane.
This strategy wo n’t work if you have to readjust a Time Machine backup or other archive , or if you swap among Time Machine volumes to keep an onsite and offsite bent . In those case , you have to disable optimisation to make a fresh complete start backup , which may take a lot of clock time and bandwidth to attain .
Manage optimization controls
If you need to enable or disable optimization , here ’s where you may obtain the controls in macOS :
How Apple could help
Apple could alleviate some of the drawback I mentioned without putting our data or our privacy at risk of exposure :
This Mac 911 clause is in response to a interrogation accede by Macworld lecturer Joe .
Ask Mac 911
We ’ve compiled a lean of the interrogative we get asked most frequently , along with answers and links to newspaper column : read our crack FAQ to see if your question is covered . If not , we ’re always looking for unexampled problems to puzzle out ! Email yours tomac911@macworld.com , including screenland capture as appropriate and whether you want your full name used . Not every question will be answered , we do n’t reply to electronic mail , and we can not provide direct troubleshooting advice .
Photos has a separate control for managing whether images and videos can be offloaded and represented as thumbnails.
