Time Machine: Backup very slow - that can be the reason

In this article, we will show you the three most common reasons that time machine backup becomes very slow. These are network problems, faulty backups and when you make a backup for the first time.

Time Machine: Backup very slow due to network problems

The most common cause of very slow time machine backups is a weak network connection.

• Since backups manage a large amount of data, a stable internet connection is extremely important. A Lan cable is best suited for this.
• If your Time Capsule or Mac is connected via the WLAN, you should place the devices as close as possible to the WLAN router.
• Thick walls, several rooms or a bathroom can significantly interfere with WLAN reception and thus make backups slow.
• We'll show you more tips on what you can do about a slow Internet connection in another practical tip.

Time Machine: What kind of backup do you do?

Depending on what kind of backup you make, the duration varies a lot. It is sometimes completely normal that backups via the Time Capsule take a long time.

• If you are backing up for the first time, this can take a long time. It is best to let the backup run overnight.
• If a lot of data has been changed between the last backup and the current one, the backup will also take a long time.

Time Machine: Restart slow backup

If neither scenario applies, you can restart the backup. This gives Time Machine the chance to fix errors at the beginning of the backup.

• If in doubt, you should restart the backup. Because if an error occurs at the beginning of the backup, the backup becomes extremely slow or does not continue at all.
• Simply cancel the current backup in the top right of your menu bar and start a new one manually. Your data will not be lost.