Backups & restore points · Status and problems
What does the Check button on a backup set do?
Short answer: Check verifies the backup already at the destination without making a new version. It shows Checking…, then Protected if all is well, or Needs attention with a fix if not.
Check verifies the backup that's already stored at the destination, without making a new version. The set shows Checking… while it runs, and returns to Protected if everything is sound.
Use it when you want peace of mind — after moving a drive between Macs, after a long time without a backup, or before you rely on a restore. If the check finds a problem, the set shows Needs attention with what to do next. You can stop a check with Stop.