Time Machine is the built-in backup feature on your Mac. It automatically makes a copy of your data and stores it on an external storage device. Here are the steps for how to set up Time Machine in macOS Ventura and how to manually start a backup at any time. Before you start, you’ll need an external storage device for your Time Machine backups, which can require a lot of space. It is recommended a storage device that you only use for your backups.

Setting up Time Machine in macOS Ventura

Make sure your external storage device is connected to your Mac. Now, click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of the screen. Click System Settings, click General, and then click Time Machine. Next, click Add Backup Disk and enter your administrator password. Then click Modify Settings, choose your external storage device, and click Set Up Disk. If you choose to encrypt your backups, which is on by default in macOS Ventura, just enter a password for the backup disk and reenter it to confirm. Enter a hint that will help you recall your password if you forget it.

You won’t be able to access your backups without it. Click Done when you’re ready. Now your Mac will prepare your external storage device and your backup will begin shortly after. Depending on how many files you have, the first time might take a while, but you can continue using your Mac throughout this process. You can click the Options button if you want to customize additional Time Machine preferences. Once it’s complete, you’ll see a notification.

Now, Time Machine will continue to run automatically as long as your Mac is connected to your external storage device and plugged into power. When it becomes full, Time Machine will delete the oldest backups to make space for new ones.

How to manually start a backup at any time

After you’ve set up Time Machine, you can manually start a backup at any time. To do this, click the Time Machine icon in the top-right corner of your screen and click Back Up Now. You can open the Time Machine menu at any time to check the status of a backup in progressor click Stop This Backup if you change your mind. And that’s how to back up your Mac regularly with Time Machine in macOS Ventura.