To set up your iCloud files so that they are stored on an external SSD instead of your internal iMac storage, follow these steps:
Steps to Sync iCloud Files to an External SSD
1. Prepare Your External SSD
Connect your external SSD to your iMac.
Ensure it is formatted correctly (preferably in APFS or exFAT for compatibility).
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2. Access iCloud Drive via Finder
Open Finder on your iMac.
In the left sidebar, click on iCloud Drive. Make sure that iCloud Drive is enabled in your system preferences.
3. Copy Files from iCloud to External SSD
Select the files or folders you want to move from iCloud Drive.
Right-click and choose Copy or press Command + C.
Navigate to your external SSD in Finder, right-click, and select Paste Item or press Command + V.
This will transfer the selected files from iCloud to your external SSD.
4. Change Download Location for Future Files
To ensure, new files are downloaded directly to the external SSD:
Open a web browser and go to iCloud.com.
Log into your account and set the download location in your browser settings to point to your external SSD. This way, when you download files from iCloud.com, they will go directly to the external drive.
5. Manage Photos with the Photos App (Optional)
If you use the Photos app and want to store photos on the external SSD:
Create a new Photos Library on the external SSD by holding down the Option key while opening the Photos app.
Choose Create New Library, select a location on your external SSD, and then import photos from your iCloud library into this new library.
Set this library as the system library under Photos > Preferences > General, then enable iCloud Photos for syncing.
6. Backup Strategy
Consider using a Time Machine with an additional external hard drive for backups. This setup will allow you to back up both your internal storage and the contents of your external SSD, ensuring data.
By following these steps, you can effectively manage your iCloud data without overwhelming your internal storage, allowing for better organization and accessibility of your files stored on an external SSD.
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