How To Fix Some Of The Files On Your Mac Cannot Be Backed Up Until Cloud Files Syncing Has Completed

Are you encountering the frustrating issue of “Some of the files on your Mac cannot be backed up until Cloud Files syncing has completed”?

This common problem, often experienced by users of the Sonoma operating system, can hinder the smooth functioning of Time Machine backups.

The error message reads as “Some of the Files on your Mac cannot be backed up until Cloud Files Syncing has completed. Try again once all files have finished syncing.”

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore effective solutions to resolve this issue and ensure seamless backup functionality for your Mac.

How To Fix Some Of The Files On Your Mac Cannot Be Backed Up Until Cloud Files Syncing Has Completed?

Fix Some Of The Files On Your Mac Cannot Be Backed Up Until Cloud Files Syncing Has Completed

To fix some of the files on your Mac cannot be backed up until cloud files syncing has completed, you can check iCloud sync status, disable and re-enable iCloud drive, and free up iCloud storage. Additionally, you can update macOS Sonoma, and enable optimize Mac storage.

1. Check ICloud Sync Status

Sometimes the backup issue arises because iCloud has not finished syncing your files.

Ensuring that iCloud sync is complete can resolve the backup problem.

  • Click on the Apple logo in the top-left corner of your screen and select “System Preferences.”
  • Choose “Apple ID” and then select “iCloud.”
  • Check the iCloud Drive options to see if there are any ongoing syncs.
  • Wait for any syncing to finish before attempting another Time Machine backup.

2. Disable And Re-enable ICloud Drive

Toggling iCloud Drive off and back on can sometimes kickstart the syncing process and eliminate backup issues.

  • Go to “System Preferences” > “Apple ID” > “iCloud.”
  • Uncheck “iCloud Drive” to disable it and wait for a few minutes.
  • Re-check “iCloud Drive” to enable it again.
  • Allow some time for your files to sync completely before trying to backup with Time Machine.

3. Free Up ICloud Storage

Insufficient iCloud storage can halt the syncing process, which in turn affects Time Machine backups.

  • Visit “System Preferences” > “Apple ID” > “iCloud” and click on “Manage” to view your storage.
  • Delete any unnecessary files or backups to free up space.
  • Consider upgrading your iCloud storage plan if you frequently run out of space.

4. Update MacOS Sonoma

Running the latest version of macOS Sonoma can fix many bugs related to iCloud and Time Machine.

  • Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner of your screen.
  • Select System Settings.
  • Click General in the sidebar.
  • Click Software Update on the right.
  • If an update is available, click Update Now or Restart Now.
  • Follow the prompts.
  • Enter your administrator password.
  • Click OK. 

5. Enable Optimize Mac Storage

“Optimize Mac Storage” is a feature that can affect how files are stored and backed up on your Mac.

Enabling it may help in ensuring that only necessary files are kept on your Mac’s local storage, potentially resolving backup issues related to iCloud syncing.

  • Click on the Apple logo in the top-left corner of your screen and select “System Preferences.”
  • Choose “Apple ID” and then select “iCloud.”
  • Next to “iCloud Drive,” click on “Options.”
  • Check the box for “Optimize Mac Storage” to enable the feature.
  • Once enabled, your Mac will prioritize keeping recent and frequently accessed files on the local drive, while older and less frequently accessed items are stored in iCloud.

6. Contact Apple Support

Contact Apple Support To Fix Some Of The Files On Your Mac Cannot Be Backed Up Until Cloud Files Syncing Has Completed

If you’ve tried all the above solutions and the problem persists, there might be a more complex issue at play.

Contacting Apple Support can provide you with professional assistance tailored to your specific situation.