Issue Description
You need to restore files, apps, or the entire system using a Time Machine backup.
Common Causes
- Accidental file deletion
- System corruption
- macOS upgrade issues
Step-by-Step Solution
Step 1: Connect Time Machine Backup Drive
- Plug in your Time Machine external drive
- Ensure it mounts in Finder
Step 2: Restore Individual Files
- Open the folder where the file was originally stored
- Click Time Machine icon → Enter Time Machine
- Navigate through timelines
- Select file → Restore
Step 3: Restore Entire System (Recovery)
- Boot into macOS Recovery
- Select Restore from Time Machine Backup
- Choose backup date → follow prompts
Step 4: Restart and Verify
- Confirm restored files and apps are working
Explore Further
- Migrate backups to a new Mac
Prevention & Best Practices
Keep Time Machine always connected or scheduled.