The operating system developers have recognized the problem. Removable drives go through many problems throughout the life cycle. As a reminder, I would choose exFAT over another file system because it has fewer limitations. You can use the external storage drive on Mac, Windows, and Linux without limitations. Click on the “Format” option and select the “ExFAT” option. Click “Show all devices” from the drop-down menu.Ħ. Click the “View” button from the top menu.ģ. Open Disk Utility from the Launchpad or Applications.Ģ.

Create an external hard drive backup before you format the drive.ġ. As a serious content creator, I suggest the exFAT file system. Even Android smartphone recognizes the exFAT file system. You won’t have compatibility issues on Windows, Linux, and Mac. Format the hard drive to the exFAT because you can use the device on cross-platform machines. Format External Hard Drive To exFAT File SystemĬontent creators have a dedicated external hard drive for various purposes. Click the “Preference” option from the drop-down menu.Ĭlose the settings window, and check the device in the Finder app. Click on the “Finder” from the top menu.ģ. You can view the settings and enable a specific feature.Ģ. Your Mac computer has detected the external storage drive, but the Finder application is not displaying the device. You can ask an authorized technician to take a look at the situation and clean the port. However, I don’t recommend cotton swabs because they can damage delicate ports. Many users consider cotton buds for reaching tricky areas. Maintain a safe distance from the computer and removable device when using a hair dryer. You can use a hair dryer, but the hot air can damage the internal components. Use an air blower to remove the dust from the USB ports and external hard drives.ī. Small dust particles slow down the machine and damage the hardware.Ī.

The computer has electrical components, including the external storage drive. When was the last time you cleaned the Mac and removable devices? Many don’t think much of the dust particles entering electronic goods. The operating system loads the essential components during the boot and solves many software-related issues. I recommend one hour of sleep for optimal performance and to improve the hardware lifespan.

Click the “Shut down” from the pop-up notification.Īllow the Mac machine to sleep for five minutes, and turn it on. Click “Shut down” from the drop-down menu.ģ.

How to clean mac hard drive