I want to switch my iPad backup to an External Harddrive......but how?

[TonyKCPD]

I need some expert help on what to do and how to do it. My computer won't take the latest update because it's out of backup space on the harddrive!

 

[richsadams]

I need some expert help on what to do and how to do it. My computer won't take the latest update because it's out of backup space on the harddrive!

Welcome to the forum! There are a lot of great people here willing to lend a hand anytime. Often using the Search box (at the top-left of every page) will lead you to the answers you're looking for. If not, feel free to post a question in the appropriate area.

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Regarding your question, the iPad backup file has to be associated to either iTunes or iCloud. AFAIK you can't get it to backup outside of those options. FWIW the backup files aren't that large (see the link below). If you need more space your best bet is to get an external hard drive and move some of your files there to free up space on your computer's hard drive.

Having said that it is possible to move your iTunes media files to an external hard drive. More here:

iTunes for Mac: Moving your iTunes Media folder

So those are really your choices. Hope that helps!

Here’s a list of the contents of the files backed up to iTunes and iCloud

iOS

iTunes: About iOS backups

iCloud

iCloud: Backup and restore overview

Welcome again and enjoy!

 

[col.bris]

Upgrade the internal drive so regardless what you do you will have plenty of space for new files plus backups.