> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.parallels.com/landing/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.parallels.com/landing/pdfm-ug/v26-en-us/parallels-desktop-for-mac-26-users-guide/parallels-desktop-preferences-and-virtual-machine-settings/virtual-machine-settings/backup-settings.md).

# Backup Settings

On the **Backup** tab of virtual machine configuration, you can automate saving the virtual machine snapshots and choose whether the virtual machine is backed up with Time Machine.

To open these settings, choose **Actions** > **Configure**, then click **Backup**.

<figure><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/cetaenGhHD5GRrct7U5v/blobs/QFZ2CPGvvDOjfAI3x1rN/Screenshot%202024-01-20%20at%2001.19.03.png" alt="" width="549"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<table><thead><tr><th width="209">Option</th><th>Description</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>SmartGuard</strong></td><td>If you want to create virtual machine snapshots automatically, select <strong>SmartGuard</strong> > <strong>Details</strong> and <a href="/landing/pdfm-ug/v26-en-us/parallels-desktop-for-mac-26-users-guide/advanced-topics/working-with-virtual-machines/saving-snapshots-of-a-virtual-machine.md">specify the details</a>: how often snapshots are made, how many snapshots are stored, and whether you want to be notified before a new snapshot is created.</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Time Machine Preferences</strong></td><td><p>By default, Time Machine automatically backs up your virtual machine together with macOS files.<br></p><p>To exclude the virtual machine from Time Machine backups, open the Time Machine preferences and add your virtual machine to the exclusion list.<br></p><p>If you later need to back up your virtual machine again, open the Time Machine preferences and remove the virtual machine from the exclusion list.</p></td></tr></tbody></table>


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