What ElseKept adds
Finder can place ordinary files in iCloud Drive, but that does not automatically create a verified history of the rest of your Mac. ElseKept creates an encrypted repository with distinct recovery points, then lets iCloud transfer those encrypted objects.
Set up the repository
- Open ElseKept and choose a focused folder, a curated plan or the broader new-Mac plan.
- Choose Folder, disk, or iCloud Drive for the primary repository.
- Select a dedicated folder inside iCloud Drive rather than mixing repository objects with ordinary documents.
- Save the Recovery Kit somewhere separate from the iCloud account.
- Run the first backup and wait for verification to finish.
Do not store the only Recovery Kit inside the same iCloud Drive that holds the only repository. Losing access to that account would remove both parts needed for recovery.
Confirm it reached another device
On another Apple device, confirm the encrypted ElseKept folder is visible and downloaded. A cloud icon can mean the object is listed but not necessarily available offline. ElseKept keeps this cross-device confirmation separate from its authenticated extraction test.
Recover a file later
Open Browse & Recover, authenticate the repository, select a recovery point and search or browse for the item. You can recover one file or folder without restoring the full snapshot.
Make the strategy stronger
iCloud Drive protects against a lost Mac only while the Apple Account and synchronized data remain available. Add an external disk, compatible S3 location, Google Drive, Dropbox or another supported destination for an independent encrypted copy.