Error code 36 external hard drive​

Error Code 36 is a common macOS error that occurs when trying to copy, move, or delete files on an external hard drive. This error is usually accompanied by the message: “The Finder can’t complete the operation because some data in [file name] can’t be read or written (Error Code -36).”

This problem typically arises due to corruption in file data, file system incompatibility, or disk errors. It can be frustrating, especially when dealing with important files. However, there are several methods to fix this issue, ranging from simple troubleshooting to advanced solutions.

Error Code 36

Before diving into the fixes, it is essential to understand what causes Error Code 36:

Corrupted Files: The error often occurs when a file or folder is corrupted.

File System Compatibility Issues: macOS and Windows use different file systems, which may lead to incompatibility problems.

Disk Errors: Bad sectors or disk corruption can cause the error.

.DS_Store Files: These system files can sometimes interfere with file operations.

Incorrect Permissions: Files with incorrect read/write permissions may trigger the error.

Methods to Fix Error Code 36

Below are step-by-step solutions to resolve this issue.

Method 1: Restart Your Mac

Restarting your Mac can often clear temporary system errors. Try this before proceeding to more complex solutions.

Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner.

Select Restart.

After rebooting, try copying or moving the files again.

Method 2: Use the dot_clean Command

The dot_clean command removes hidden system files that might be causing the issue.

Open Terminal (Finder > Applications > Utilities > Terminal).

Type the following command and press Enter:

dot_clean /Path/To/Problematic/Folder

Replace /Path/To/Problematic/Folder with the actual path of the file or folder.

Try copying or moving the file again.

Method 3: Check Disk for Errors (Disk Utility)

A corrupted disk may be responsible for Error Code 36. Running Disk Utility’s First Aid can help fix disk-related issues.

Connect the external hard drive to your Mac.

Open Disk Utility (Finder > Applications > Utilities > Disk Utility).

Select the external hard drive from the left sidebar.

Click First Aid, then Run.

Wait for the process to complete and then try the file operation again.

Method 4: Check File Permissions

Incorrect permissions can prevent file operations and lead to Error Code 36.

Right-click on the problematic file or folder.

Select Get Info.

Under Sharing & Permissions, ensure your user account has Read & Write access.

If necessary, click the lock icon, enter your password, and modify the permissions.

Try moving or copying the file again.

Method 5: Copy Files in Safe Mode

Safe Mode prevents third-party applications from interfering with system operations.

Restart your Mac and hold down the Shift key while it boots.

Log in and attempt to copy or move the file.

If successful, restart your Mac normally.

Method 6: Format the External Hard Drive

If none of the above methods work, reformatting the drive may be necessary. Note: This will erase all data on the drive.

Backup important files before proceeding.

Open Disk Utility.

Select the external hard drive.

Click Erase.

Choose ExFAT or Mac OS Extended (Journaled) as the format.

Click Erase, then try using the drive again.

Method 7: Use Third-Party Software

If the error persists, consider using third-party disk repair tools such as:

DiskWarrior

Drive Genius

TechTool Pro

These tools can diagnose and fix disk errors more thoroughly than Disk Utility.

Method 8: Copy Files in Small Batches

If you’re dealing with large files, copying them in smaller batches can sometimes bypass Error Code 36.

Method 9: Check for macOS Updates

Outdated macOS versions may have bugs that cause file transfer issues.

Open System Settings (or System Preferences in older macOS versions).

Go to Software Update.

Install any available updates and restart your Mac.

Method 10: Try Another External Drive or Port

The issue may be with the external hard drive or port itself. Try:

Connecting the drive to a different USB port.

Using another external drive to check if the issue persists.

Testing the drive on a different Mac or Windows computer.

Error Code 36 can be frustrating, but with the right troubleshooting steps, it can be resolved. Start with basic fixes like restarting your Mac and using the dot_clean command, then move on to checking disk errors and permissions. If necessary, reformat the drive or use third-party software.