About Time Machine

[mathewgx]

Does Time Machine backups include only apps and settings or the entire macos?
I mean if you use Time Machine to restore to an empty disk would you have a fully working system or you have to first install the os ?

 

[0128672]

Yes, you can back up the OS in Time Machine and then use it as a startup disk in Lion 10.7.3 and later, and in a restore use it to restore the OS too:

Back up your Mac with Time Machine - Apple Support

If you have a USB drive or other external storage device, you can use Time Machine to automatically back up your files, including apps, music, photos, email, and documents.

support.apple.com

Restore your Mac from a backup - Apple Support

Use Migration Assistant to transfer files from your Time Machine backup to your Mac.

support.apple.com