Backups & restore points · Time Machine and backup strategy
Should I keep backups in two places?
Short answer: Yes. A common rule is three copies on two kinds of storage with one off-site. In Data Backup, put important folders in two sets — one to an external drive, one to a cloud account.
It's the safest habit. A widely used rule of thumb is three copies of what matters, on two different kinds of storage, with one kept somewhere else. One backup drive sitting next to your Mac can be lost to the same theft, fire or spill as the Mac itself.
With Data Backup, add the same folders to two backup sets: one backing up to an external drive (fast, local) and one to a cloud account (off-site, encrypted on your Mac first). Each set keeps its own versions, so either can restore on its own.