time machine question

[kkamin]

I'm using an external drive for Time Machine.

If my laptop ever dies, can I take buy a new Mac and copy everything from the Time Machine drive onto the new computer--programs and all. If so, how would the program licenses adapt to a new computer?

 

[MrCheeto]

In the setup of a new computer it will ask if you want to "restore" using a time machine backup. It will then transfer all of your files and settings, including applications.

Apps will sometimes need to have the license re-entered and reactivated.

In my experiences, if somebody took my laptop, replaced it and used Time Machine to restore it, I'd never notice it had gone yes, it's THAT thorough

 

[dashcs]

Its that easy,it will transfer registration codes over too,well most of time.
It all depends on the 3rd party applications.

Here a some time machine info.
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1427

 

[stridemat]

When I restored my mac from a TM backup it had all the product keys entered already (even Microsoft Office, I was sure that one was going to give me issues) It was like I was working on exactly the same machine.

 

[patrick0brien]

I use Time machine for standard HDD upgrades and I've never had an issue.

 

[xplnusa]

I'm very happy to hear this.... I purchased a 1TB drive to match the 1TB drive in my new iMac... So if it ever dies I can just plug it into the new machine and go... I'm happy to know that I also have my music, movies and pics backed up in another location too... Thats a bit of extra peace of mind...