---
id: mac-storage-basics.should-i-encrypt-time-machine-backups
url: https://storagestudio.us/faq/mac-storage-basics/should-i-encrypt-time-machine-backups
category: "Mac storage basics"
subcategory: "Time Machine basics"
question: "Should I encrypt my Time Machine backups?"
alt_questions:
  - "encrypt time machine backup"
  - "time machine encryption password"
  - "is time machine backup encrypted"
  - "secure backup drive mac"
short_answer: "Yes, if the drive could be lost or stolen. Tick Encrypt Backups when adding the disk, and store the password safely — you can't restore without it."
tags: ["time machine", "encryption", "backup"]
related: ["https://storagestudio.us/faq/mac-storage-basics/how-do-i-encrypt-an-external-drive-on-a-mac"]
applies_to: "all"
last_reviewed: 2026-10-01
---

# Should I encrypt my Time Machine backups?

Yes, if the backup drive could be lost or stolen — it holds a full copy of your Mac. Tick **Encrypt Backups** when you add the disk in Time Machine settings (or encrypt the drive in Finder).

Keep the password somewhere safe: without it you can't restore. Encryption doesn't meaningfully change how much space backups use.