Will Time Machine work if I log out?

[maczod]

I like to keep my computer secure when I leave it unattended, just wondering if TM will run its auto-backups when I log out?

 

[misterredman]

Seems like it doesn't, but may depend on where you are backing up too. Check here:

http://www.macosxhints.com/article.php?story=20080425101239408

http://systemsboy.blogspot.com/2008/04/time-machine-after-logout.html

Can anyone confirm that?

 

[JimmyLo]

Time Machine will Work When Logged Out

If you are using an external hard drive, you must be sure the disk does not dismount when logged off. There may be multiple ways to do this, but I use Cocktail to change this setting.

If you use an internal disk for Time Machine, it should run when nobody is logged in.

 

[b1u3b0y]

I suggest you just use fast user switching.. here are the steps to get it working

system prefs > accounts > login options > enable fast user switching

This will put an icon in your menu bar and allow you to switich to the login screen while still leaving all your applications and settings running. Then when you want to go back on your computer you sign in and everything is still there as you left it. No waiting for things to load or restart or anything. Very nice if you're working on video or graphic projects like I do.