macOS Back up automatically closes after "Preparing backup..."

Hey everyone!


I hope you're doing well. I try to back up my macbook for the first time actually.

I want to back it up on my external drive since my mac has no space left.

I tried to turn off and on the "back up automatically" check mark but no difference. Also restarted, no effect.


I have to "Login" into my external Drive before I use it. The name of the external drive is:

SanDisk Extreme Portable V2 SDSSDE61-4T00-G25 4TB

I use the external drive for both: Storing files of my Window. Backing up macOS.


  • The Format for macOS Backup: APFS (Case-sensitive).
  • The Format for Storage: ExFAT.


I do get an error as well (last picture), I'll list you everything by picture here for better understanding:


The specs of my macbook:


What I see before the error comes up:


The actual error (right side) with the external drive and it's folder on the left side:


I already appreciate your time and help on this topic, hopefully speak soon.

MacBook Pro 14″

Posted on Apr 11, 2023 6:04 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Apr 11, 2023 9:58 AM

I found the issue myself. The issue was that my External Hard Drive's Password blocked the process.

My Hard Drive is: SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD V2 4TB G25

After removing the Password, Time Machine was able to launch and work:



Just in case anyone has this problem, this might be the solution for you.


Also, side bonus. I formatted my External HD so it work both for Mac & Windows.

Here's a nice and simple explained YouTube Video on how to do set it all up right: https://youtu.be/sZc0VxkU2DY?t=634

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Apr 11, 2023 9:58 AM in response to iSaanro

I found the issue myself. The issue was that my External Hard Drive's Password blocked the process.

My Hard Drive is: SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD V2 4TB G25

After removing the Password, Time Machine was able to launch and work:



Just in case anyone has this problem, this might be the solution for you.


Also, side bonus. I formatted my External HD so it work both for Mac & Windows.

Here's a nice and simple explained YouTube Video on how to do set it all up right: https://youtu.be/sZc0VxkU2DY?t=634

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macOS Back up automatically closes after "Preparing backup..."

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