Setting up and Configuring a NAS for Time Machine backups on macOS
Step 1: Selecting the NAS Device
To set up a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device for Time Machine backups on macOS, first, choose a suitable NAS device that supports Time Machine backups. Make sure it has enough storage capacity to accommodate your backup needs.
Step 2: Connecting the NAS Device
Connect the NAS device to your local network using an Ethernet cable. Ensure that the NAS device is properly powered on and accessible on the network.
Step 3: Configuring the NAS Device
3.1 Setting up User Accounts
Access the NAS device's configuration interface, usually through a web browser, by entering the NAS's IP address. Set up user accounts with appropriate privileges to access the shared folders on the NAS.
3.2 Creating a Time Machine Shared Folder
Create a new shared folder specifically for Time Machine backups. Assign read and write permissions to the user accounts that will be utilizing Time Machine.
3.3 Enabling Time Machine Support
In the NAS configuration interface, enable Time Machine support and specify the newly created shared folder as the designated backup destination.
3.4 Setting Quotas or Limits (optional)
If desired, configure storage quotas or limits for each user account to ensure fair usage and efficient management of storage space.
Step 4: Configuring Time Machine on macOS
4.1 Opening Time Machine Preferences
On your macOS device, click on the Apple menu and select "System Preferences." Then, choose "Time Machine" from the preferences window.
4.2 Adding a Time Machine Disk
Click on the lock icon and authenticate with an administrator password to make changes. Next, click on the "+" button to add a new Time Machine backup disk.
4.3 Selecting the NAS Shared Folder
From the list of available disks, select the NAS shared folder created earlier as the Time Machine backup destination.
4.4 Customizing Time Machine Options (optional)
Configure additional options as desired, such as excluding files and folders from backups or encrypting the backups for added security.
Step 5: Initiating the First Backup
Once the configuration is complete, click on the "Back Up Now" button or wait for the automatic backup to start according to the Time Machine schedule. The initial backup may take time depending on the size of your data.
Congratulations! You have successfully set up and configured a NAS device for Time Machine backups on your macOS system.
