Delete all Time Machine backups ...

Question

Delete all Time Machine backups ...

I just begun doing Time Machine backups. I just realized that the files and folders selected where incorrect so I interrupted the backup.

I searched the web and found a way to delete previous backuped files from within Time Machine but am not sure what I was really doing. Info on the web is either outdated or applies to newer OS. I am still with Catalina.

I want to start all over again and want to delete all previous TM backups.

In Time Machine, I see only one file: iMacIntel.backupbundle. Can I simply delete that file that must include the 2 small backup sessions that I made. There is nothing to save from those backup.

Can I do that ?

iMac Line (2012 and Later)

Posted on Sep 26, 2021 7:40 PM

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Answer 1

Sep 26, 2021 7:55 PM in response to Robert Lesperance

Yes, you can just delete that file from the backup disk and start over.

I'd recommend that you erase ALL the files from the drive and start fresh. Don't mix any other files with the TM backups that will be stored there.

You might consider using Disk Utility to erase the drive, but that's just an option and not required.

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Answer 2

Sep 28, 2021 6:56 PM in response to tbirdvet

I should of said the iMacIntel.backupbundle file in the Time Capsule instead of saying in the Time Machine. The only way to erase TM backups is to erase the TC with Airport Utility. Disk utility is of no help for this.

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Answer 3

tbirdvet

Level 6

16,831 points

Sep 27, 2021 9:52 AM in response to Robert Lesperance

It would be best to use disk utilities and erase the drive and start over. But first remove the drive from the TM preference pane.

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Answer 4

Sep 26, 2021 8:12 PM in response to D.I. Johnson

Thanks.

Can you also help me with this thread: https://discussions.apple.com/thread/253187627 ?

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Delete all Time Machine backups ...

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