If your Mac can't transfer files to an external hard drive, the format is likely NTFS. Get full read/write access and fix the issue using specialized driver software built for Mac.
I am using a WD Elements 12TB external hard drive and recently switched to a MacBook Air 13-inch with the M1 chip from 2020. Because this MacBook does not have a USB-A port, I connected the hard drive using a USB-C to Micro-B cable from Scorptec. The drive connects successfully, and I can view all the files on it. I can also copy files from the hard drive to my MacBook without any problem.
However, I cannot transfer files from my MacBook to the hard drive, as it appears to be read-only. I would like to know if there is a way to fix this issue without erasing or reformatting the hard drive. I am also wondering whether the cable could be causing the problem. Would it work better if I used the original WD cable together with a USB-A to USB-C adapter from Kogan.
- Question from www.reddit.com
The necessity of external storage is a practical concern for Mac users, particularly as internal Mac storage tends to be limited. Whether relying on traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs), swift Solid State Drives (SSDs), or simple USB sticks, external media is a vital way to keep important files and backups secure. It is therefore incredibly frustrating when the attempt to copy files to these necessary drives fails without warning.
This file transfer issue is rarely singular; instead, it often results from a convergence of distinct problems. Sometimes the drive itself is the limiting factor, either because it is completely full or has suffered some physical damage. Another frequent hurdle is related to the drive's configuration, specifically if it has read only permissions that must be manually adjusted before any new data can be written. Furthermore, the simplest connections can cause failure: a faulty cable or adapter may interrupt the crucial data stream, or the drive may simply not be fully compatible with the macOS operating system. Finally, the problem might stem from software glitches within the Mac itself, impeding smooth file operation.
To restore normal file transfer capabilities and ensure data is safely backed up, users should systematically investigate these possible causes. This often means verifying the drive's available storage, attempting a repair or reformat if needed, correctly adjusting its permissions settings, or confirming a reliable cable is in use. By successfully diagnosing the exact reason for the failure, Mac users can quickly resume their ability to transfer and safeguard data on their external storage devices.
If your Mac cannot transfer files to an external hard drive, the drive is likely formatted with the NTFS file system, which macOS cannot write to by default. Free PartitionAssistant NTFS for Mac solves this problem by making NTFS drives fully compatible with Mac. With this tool, you can easily read, write, delete, rename, and move files on NTFS drives, just like on a native Mac drive.
The software works smoothly on both Intel and Apple Silicon (M1/M2) Macs, and all tasks can be done in a few clicks. Its advantages include:
This seamless compatibility creates an easy digital bridge for everyone, from students needing to share project files between university Windows labs and their MacBooks to business teams exchanging documents across different company devices. It also simplifies life at home, allowing family members to easily share photos and videos, and proves invaluable during major transitions like migrating your entire digital history from an old Windows PC to a new Mac.
With PartitionAssistant NTFS for Mac, transferring files from Mac to NTFS drives becomes simple, reliable, and fully supported on all modern Macs.
Before we start, you need to configure Security Policy in iOS Recovery Mode.
Step 1. Run Partition Assistant NTFS for Mac and connect your NTFS hard drive or USB flash drive.
Step 2. The connected, removable, and external USB drives will be mounted and listed.
Step 3. Select the drive you want to operate and click "Open".
Step 4. Now you can copy files on your Mac and click "Paste Item" to copy the files to USB drive.
Step 5. You can also copy, delete, and rename files on the USB drive.
Step 6. After all operations are complete, please click "Eject" to disconnect the USB drive from your Mac.
When Mac users cannot transfer files to an external hard drive, the problem is often related to the drive’s file system, permissions, or connection issues. Drives formatted with NTFS are read-only on macOS by default, which prevents copying, editing, or deleting files. Tools like PartitionAssistant NTFS for Mac make NTFS drives fully compatible with both Intel and Apple Silicon Macs, allowing users to read, write, and manage files easily. By using such software, Mac users can ensure smooth file transfers, protect their data, and work across different devices with ease.
1. Why can't I move files from Mac to external hard drive?
Your external hard drive is likely formatted as NTFS, which macOS can read but cannot write to by default.
2. How can I copy files from my Mac to my external hard drive?
Use software like PartitionAssistant NTFS for Mac to enable full read/write access, then copy files normally.
3. Why can't I copy files to an external hard drive?
The drive may be read-only or incompatible with Mac. Check the format (NTFS, FAT32, exFAT) and use NTFS software if needed.
4. Why is my Mac not letting me copy and paste?
The issue often comes from file permissions, a read-only drive, or incompatible file system. Adjust permissions or use compatible software.
5. Why can't I copy and paste from my Mac to my hard drive?
Your Mac may not have write access to the drive. Using an NTFS driver or formatting the drive to a Mac-compatible system can solve this.