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Dropbox Backup migration to new computer using the same external drive
Hello,
To avoid losing my data, I back it up to the cloud using Dropbox. I’m considering buying an M1 Mac mini to use as a server, so I can access my data from my MacBook Air and automate my backups.
My question is: will I have to redo all my backups, or will simply connecting my SSD to the Mac mini allow Dropbox to continue syncing without having to re-upload all 3TB of data?
Thank you for your help.
Best regards,
Thanks for the clarifications Marc L.18 - much appreciated.
In this case, your external drive would be considered as a new one and would be backed up anew.
You should be able to locate your backups in the backups page through the web on any device though.
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Hi Theresa
I think the Dropbox development teams are top-notch, they manage to deliver simple, functional, and efficient solutions within the Apple ecosystem, which is no easy task.
Personally, I mainly use the incremental backup feature, which allows me to have a cloud backup in addition to my external hard drive backups.
My expectations:
- Continue optimizing integration with macOS
- Offer a 4TB plan for individual users, with competitive pricing
- Theresa
Community Manager
Hi Marc L.18 and welcome back to the Dropbox Community. I'm glad to see that you're query has been answered.
I’m Theresa 👩💻, one of the Community Managers here. I’m often buzzing around the forum to lend a hand or spark new discussions.
Just curious... are there any Dropbox settings or features you’ve found especially helpful lately? We love learning new tricks from savvy members like you!
Catch you around,
T 😸 (Dropbox Community Manager
- Walter
Dropbox Community Moderator
No worries, Marc - I'm just glad I could help.
See you around the Community and have a lovely week ahead!
- Walter
You'll need to delete your old backup before creating your new one on your new computer to make up storage space, Marc. Assuming that you'd like to have your external drive backed up to Dropbox again.
Thank you for your explanation.
Here’s a view of my current backup — what would you recommend in this case?
- Walter
Only if you choose to download it inside your Dropbox folder, Marc. Otherwise, you'll need to have enough hard drive space on your computer to hold this amount of data.
If you'd like to back up your external drive anew through the Dropbox Backup feature though, you'll need to delete your old backup before connecting it to your new computer to make up some storage and avoid the warnings you mentioned.
Even if my current 3TB backup already contains 2.5TB of data?
I won’t get an error message saying that my Dropbox storage is full?
Thank you for the clear explanation.
To confirm: does this mean I need to manually delete the existing Dropbox Backup before initiating a new backup from the same external SSD on the Mac mini, in order to avoid any conflicts or duplication?
