Encrypted Backup Restoration

[Jaymon27]

Hi there,

I just backed up my old computer onto a large hard drive via time machine and encrypted it.

Now I am trying to restore this backup on my new computer after wiping the old one but when in recovery mode and under time machine system restore, the drive with all my stuff is not appearing. I think it's because it is encrypted.

I did some research and it said that encrypted drives appear but they are password locked, however, nothing is appearing when I plug the backup drive in.

I need help, thanks.

 

[Mikael H]

According to Backup Quantum theory, backups both exist and don't exist until you've tested them.
If you still have your old computer, see if Time Machine recognises the drive there. If it doesn't, you may be out of luck.

 

[Fishrrman]

OP's post illustrates why I -DO NOT- use encryption on my backups (with the sole exception of the one I keep in the car)...

 

[Weaselboy]

Now I am trying to restore this backup on my new computer after wiping the old one but when in recovery mode and under time machine system restore, the drive with all my stuff is not appearing. I think it's because it is encrypted.

From the recovery screen, open Disk Utility and select the backup volume then right click and unlock it. You should then be able to restore.

 

[Mikael H]

OP's post illustrates why I -DO NOT- use encryption on my backups (with the sole exception of the one I keep in the car)...

Many (most?) people probably don't need it, but for those that do, it's just a matter of understanding encryption before you use it, and of sane backup practices: Never be in a situation where there's only one copy of anything important, and always test that backups are restorable - preferably with an automated script so you don't have to remember to do it.