How to back up applications

[Rowf]

I make back ups using time machine but how do I back up single applications to an external location.

For instance: I have WriteRoom installed which I purchased from the App store. Can I just copy WriteRoom from my applications folder and then, if it was uninstalled, copy it back to the applications folder to reinstall it?

 

[simsaladimbamba]

I make back ups using time machine but how do I back up single applications to an external location.

For instance: I have WriteRoom installed which I purchased from the App store. Can I just copy WriteRoom from my applications folder and then, if it was uninstalled, copy it back to the applications folder to reinstall it?

Yes, that is what I did with purchased applications from the Mac App Store - AirDisplay for example.

 

[Rowf]

I was hoping it would be that easy

Thank you.

 

[blevins321]

That works with about 95% of applications, but some require reinstallation instead of just backing up the app/folder inside your Applications folder. Adobe comes to mind, Microsoft Office probably too. Mainly because of the integrated system functions and the activation records being hidden elsewhere.

 

[satcomer]

I make back ups using time machine but how do I back up single applications to an external location.

For instance: I have WriteRoom installed which I purchased from the App store. Can I just copy WriteRoom from my applications folder and then, if it was uninstalled, copy it back to the applications folder to reinstall it?

Buy an external disk (that can use the fastest port on your Mac) you can use as a Time Machine backup disk. This will backup files you can access anytime the disk is connected.