macOS Storage & Backup settings
Manage space, back up your data, and stay protected against loss.
- Time Machine BackupTime Machine automatically backs up your entire Mac — apps, accounts, preferences, and files — to an external or network drive, so you can restore individual files or your whole system if something goes wrong.
- Storage ManagementStorage settings show a visual breakdown of exactly what's using space on your Mac's disk, plus built-in recommendations — like storing files in iCloud or automatically emptying the Trash — to free up space without manually hunting for large files yourself.
- Optimize StorageOptimize Storage is a set of Apple-recommended actions — like storing files in iCloud, auto-emptying the Trash, and removing watched TV shows and movies — that free up local disk space with minimal effort. It's found inside About This Mac's Storage settings.
- iCloud DriveiCloud Drive keeps your files in sync across every device signed into the same Apple ID, and can automatically include your Desktop and Documents folders so they're backed up and accessible from any Mac, iPhone, or iPad. Files sync in the background and are accessible from the Finder sidebar or iCloud.com.
- External StorageExternal Storage covers how macOS handles USB, Thunderbolt, and network-attached drives connected to your Mac — formatting them, choosing a file system, ejecting safely, and deciding which ones are eligible for Time Machine backups. Disk Utility is the main tool for managing these drives.
- Documents & Desktop iCloud SyncAutomatically upload the contents of your Desktop and Documents folders to iCloud Drive so they stay backed up and accessible from other signed-in devices.
- Migration AssistantMove apps, files, user accounts, and settings from another Mac, a Time Machine backup, or a Windows PC onto your current Mac using the built-in Migration Assistant utility.
- Disk Utility: Partition & Format DrivesUse Disk Utility to create or resize partitions, format internal or external drives to a specific file system, and erase disks before reuse.
- iCloud+ FeaturesEnable and configure premium iCloud+ features such as iCloud Private Relay, Hide My Email, and HomeKit Secure Video storage tied to your paid iCloud storage plan.
- Download a Copy of Your DataRequest a downloadable archive of the personal data associated with your Apple ID, including iCloud content, purchase history, and account details, through the Data & Privacy portal.
Other macOS categories
- SystemKeep your device current and configure core system behavior.
- Privacy & SecurityControl which apps can access your camera, microphone, and data.
- Network & InternetWi-Fi, Bluetooth, and network connection settings.
- Display & SoundScreen, audio, and alert preferences.
- Accounts & FamilyAccount sign-in, sync, and family/parental controls.
- AccessibilityAssistive features, input, and language & region settings.
- TroubleshootingReset, restart, and diagnose common issues.
- PersonalizationThemes, wallpaper, lock screen, and layout of your device.
- DevicesMice, keyboards, trackpads, printers, and other connected hardware.
- AppsInstalled apps, optional features, and what runs on startup.
- System InfoDevice details, advanced settings, and activation status.