If I were to backup my Mac with Time Machine does it do a file level backup or a block level backup? I don't want want some deleted files on my Mac to be stored on my backup HDD and even for restores. For example if I put back the data on the HDD to my Mac does it do a file level or block level restore?
MacOS – Does Time Machine do file level backup and restores
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Related Solutions
Unfortunately, you're not going to be able to recover that file using Time Machine. There are a number of files and directories that Time Machine does not back up—primarily cache and temporary files. This includes the files in the /tmp directory. The directory itself (minus contents) is backed up, because it is necessary for a reinstall.
The complete list of exclusions can be found in /System/Library/CoreServices/backupd.bundle/Contents/Resources/StdExclusions.plist
ᔥ Devin Lane: Time Machine Exclusions
This site is devoted to answering questions about Apple Products, but it's aimed more towards comsumers than power users. That doesen't mean your question is "wrong" in any way or you should remove it, but I strongly reccomend to ask it at the Super User Stackexchange site, which is devoted to power users like you. I think you might find there someone who can answer your question much sooner than here.
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Best Answer
Time Machine works with individual files and folders. You can set up Time Machine exclusions in System Preferences → Time Machine → Options. Any files or folders in this list won't be backed up and won't be restored.