Processes
backupd
The Time Machine backup process.
What it is
backupd copies changed files to your Time Machine backup disk. It runs every hour while backups are on, and the first backup to a new disk can take hours.
During a backup it reads a lot from your disk, which can make the Mac feel slower, especially with large files that change often (virtual machines, video projects).
Should you worry?
No, as long as backups complete. It's a good process to have running.
What you can do
- Exclude large folders that don't need backing up in System Settings › General › Time Machine › Options.
- Let the first backup finish while you aren't working.