Mac data and backup — recovering data from a dead Mac, Time Machine and migration
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Quick answer
Data is often more valuable than the Mac itself. On Intel Macs before T2 (2012-2017), we can usually clone data out of failing hard drives and SSDs with specialist tools. On Intel Macs with T2 (2018+) and Apple Silicon, the SSD is encrypted by the Secure Enclave — instead, we restore the logic board to a state where the T2/M-processor can again access and decrypt the SSD. A backup is still the cheapest insurance; we also help with setup and migration to a new Mac.
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How do you recover data from a dead Mac?
It depends on the model. Intel Macs before T2 (2012-2017): bring it to us and we can usually clone data out of the failing drive with specialist tools. Intel Macs with T2 (2018+) and Apple Silicon: the SSD is encrypted by the Secure Enclave inside the T2/M-chip — we restore the logic board to a state where the T2/M-processor can again access and decrypt the SSD (DKK 4,000-8,000). Preventive: run Time Machine + iCloud now.
Can you retrieve data from a Mac that won't start?
Yes, in most cases. 1) If the Mac can still boot reasonably: Target Disk Mode (Intel pre-T2: hold T) or Share Disk Mode (Apple Silicon: hold the power button → Options → Utilities → Share Disk). On T2 and Apple Silicon, this requires the FileVault password. 2) If the Mac is completely dead and it's Intel WITHOUT T2, we read the SSD with specialist equipment. 3) On T2 and Apple Silicon, we perform component-level logic board repair to bring the T2/M-chip back to working order, so the Secure Enclave itself decrypts the SSD and your data becomes accessible again.
How do I create a backup?
Apple's Time Machine is free and built in: 1) buy an external USB-C SSD (1-2 TB, DKK 800-1,500), 2) plug it in and macOS will ask about Time Machine — say yes, 3) it makes the first backup over a few hours, then runs continuously in the background. For extra safety: combine with iCloud Drive or a cloud backup service like BackBlaze.
How do I restore a Mac?
Via Time Machine in Recovery Mode: 1) boot into Recovery (Cmd+R / hold the power button). 2) Choose 'Restore from Time Machine Backup'. 3) Pick the backup disk and date. 4) Wait (it can take hours depending on data size). You'll get an exact copy of your Mac at the chosen point in time. If the Mac can't even boot into Recovery, contact us.
How do I transfer data to a new Mac?
Apple's 'Migration Assistant' (which appears as part of the setup on a new Mac): 1) choose 'From a Mac, Time Machine backup or startup disk'. 2) Connect either directly (Thunderbolt cable) or over WiFi. 3) Choose what to migrate. It takes 1-4 hours depending on data size. Everything carries over: apps, settings, user profile, files.