Trouble with my Ventura MacBook Pro locking up.

[StarShot]

My 2020 MacBook Pro is locking up. When this happens, it's almost impossible to unlock. Using the option/cmd/esc sometimes allow to close that the program that is locking it up. Other times this method doesn't work and it's necessary to do a hard reboot.

I don't think I've ever used the Time Machine with this unit. When I do click on Time Machine, I get a prompt that requests I setup an drive to use Time Machine. In this case, since I don't have any Time Machine backups, I assume this method won't let me restore to an earlier backup.

I'm now thinking of going nuclear to get back to factory settings. About the only programs I would lose would be Excel, Word, 1Password and my streaming videos inputs. If I went this route I think there is a option to keep these programs as it's not a complete factory setting procedure.

I'm also considering moving on to a new MB Pro 16" with the new M2 chip. My present MBP has the 12" screen.

Thoughts???

 

[Mr_Brightside_@]

I issue the base M1 Air as standard at work, so while the Pro is more powerful, I'm not sure it's replacement time yet. I would start with a full Time Machine backup - you need to purchase an external drive for it - then a reinstall via macOS Recovery mode. This doesn't remove files, but the backup is always best practice.

 

[StarShot]

I issue the base M1 Air as standard at work, so while the Pro is more powerful, I'm not sure it's replacement time yet. I would start with a full Time Machine backup - you need to purchase an external drive for it - then a reinstall via macOS Recovery mode. This doesn't remove files, but the backup is always best practice.

So the only way the Time Machine works is with an external HD? Is that right?

 

[Mr_Brightside_@]

yes

 

[StarShot]

yes

Thanks.

 

[ignatius345]

There is actually a local cache of changed versions of files. In a lot of apps you can select "browse versions" and see past versions even if you don't have a Time Machine drive attached.

It's not really a backup because everything is on the same drive, but it can be useful in some situations.

Also, goes without saying but if you don't have any backups on an external drive (Time Machine or another method), everything on your local hard drive is at risk of loss if something happens to your hard drive.