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There are several reasons you might need to install a new copy of macOS or OS X on the hard drive in your Mac or MacBook. Fortunately, there are also several ways to do it, ranging from Internet recovery to installation discs.
External drives are quick and easy to use, and they’re usually extremely portable. Transferring files from one computer to the next can be much faster with the help of an external hard drive. They’re often used to store backup files or files too large to keep on a primary computer.If you find that you’re constantly running out of space — or your overall computer performance is beginning to suffer — an external hard drive can be very safe and secure way to move files around.External hard drives vs.
Flash drivesExternal hard drives are basically hard drives (HDD) or solid state drives (SSD) that are wrapped in their own protective casing and connect to your from the outside as opposed to the inside. Flash drives are external drives, but they aren’t as fast, and they don’t usually store as much space as their larger external hard drive relatives. Some external hard drives get power directly from the computer connection. Others will need to be plugged into the wall. There are varying levels of storage capacity in an external hard drive, and the overall size of the HDD depends on the model. FormattingFor Mac users, buying an external HDD already formatted for your system makes getting started much easier.
This is because when you initially connect an external HDD made for Mac (to a Mac computer), you won’t be required to format it before you begin transferring files. External HDDs that are not specific to Macs may also work, but you’ll need to reformat them first, which could take some time.Even though Mac computers are capable of reading hard drives that are formatted for Windows, if you intend on using your external HDD as a bootable disk or want to use it to backup files with your Mac’s Time Machine, you must format it to be entirely Mac compatible.PowerYour HDD will need to power itself by either an AC power cord or through its data cable that plugs into your computer. There are obvious benefits to getting power directly from your computer, but hard drives that are larger and more powerful may need the independent power source to optimize efficiency.Storage capacityIn terms of storage space, 1,000GB is equal to 1TB (terabyte).
Typically, 1TB is enough for 250,000 or 200,000 digital photos. This is also how much space you’d need for about 120 HD videos.Common storage sizes for external HDDs include:.500GB.1TB.2TB.4TB.8TBPortabilityPortable hard drives are designed for. They’re lighter, thinner, and will likely have extra protection for the casing. They’re made to easily slip in and out of a laptop case or bookbag, taking up very little space. The best external hard drives should be able to withstand an occasional drop or two.DesktopSome external hard drives are meant to stay relatively stationary. They tend to be bigger in size and don’t have as much protection against drops. These drives tend to pack a slightly larger punch than smaller, more portable HDDs.
USB 3.0This is a common connection type for many external hard drives. USB is very compatible with Mac machines, especially those with older versions. It’s max transfer rate is 10 Gb/s. Most (but not all) Mac computers and will have at least one USB port that supports external memory.USB-CThis is a newer form of USB connection that delivers more power and slightly faster speeds for Mac users. New hard drives will come with the proper connection cords to ensure compatibility. The max transfer speeds provided by USB is is 20 Gb/s.ThunderboltThunderbolt connections are the latest in data and power transfer and popular amongst Mac devices. Its strength is in its speed and power as well as its ability to chain more than one device to a single computer.
Its max transfer speed is about double that of USB-C at 40 Gb/s. Overall storage space will typically play the main role in the final price you’ll pay for an external hard drive.$50 and underIn this range, you’ll find quality external drives that hold 500GB to 1TB of storage for Mac computers.$60 to $80If you’re looking for anywhere between 2TB and 3TB of storage space, you’ll be spending within this price range.$100 to $150+You won’t be able to find many quality HDDs that hold 4TB of space for under $100. As you get closer to 8TB of storage, you’ll be looking at spending $150 or more.$200+For those who want hefty amounts of storage — 10TB or more — you’ll need to invest $200 or more.Avoid unplugging your hard drive before unmounting it from your computer. Disconnecting your HDD while it’s transferring or updating can cause files to become damaged or even lost forever. It can also put unnecessary stress on your computer and the hard drive itself.Even though many external hard drives are built for portability, you’ll still want to take extra care of them so they last. If possible, look to keep them in a traveling pouch or case for greater protection.
This will undoubtedly extend the overall life. With so many options to choose from, we had to pass up on some quality picks. We had a sharp focus on affordability, but if you’ve got a few extra dollars to spend and are looking for massive amounts of storage, the is an excellent choice. It’s got a sleek design so it won’t take up tons of space, and it’s USB 3.0 and 2.0 compatible. Mac users will need to format it out of the box before use.
A more portable option is the. It’s made to travel with built-in cable storage, a water-resistant and anti-scratch casing, and a shockproof body. It’s a bit on the pricier end, but its security features and compact size make it a great buy. How long will files last on a quality external HDD?A. Typically, the files will remain until you delete or destroy them — intentionally or by accident. Generally, your external HDD for Mac should last anywhere between three to five years.
A good indicator is how long your manufacturer's warranty is for, as studies have shown that they are fairly accurate when it comes to HDD lifespan.Q. Can I use my HDDs with my Mac and Windows computer at the same time?A. Technically, yes. Mac-compatible hard drives will come formatted for Mac right out of the box. If you want to use if for Windows also, you’ll have to partition your drive and create the needed space to support your windows files or disks.
To access Divinity School computing resources from outside of Duke’s network, you must connect to Duke’s network using Virtual Private Network software. Duke uses the Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client.
If you do not already have the Cisco AnyConnect software installed, instructions for installing it can be found. If you are connected from campus, you MUST be connected to the DukeBlue network.1. After you have established a secure connection to our network, locate the Finder menu. Clicking on any empty section of the desktop will usually bring the Finder menu to the front of the menu bars.2. Click on “Go” and then from the “Go” menu click on “Connect to Server” (.You can also use the keyboard shortcut ⌘-k)3. You will be presented with a window similar to the one in step #4.4.
The first time you do this you should delete the information that is in the “Server Address:” field and replace it with one of the following without the quotes.For the F drive: “smb://file.divinity.duke.edu/divinity/users/” and substitute the user own NetID in place of. Example: NetID is tuserFor the S drive: “smb://file.divinity.duke.edu/divinity/share”5. Clicking the + (to the far left of “Browse” and “Connect”) will add the information in the field to the list of “Favorite Servers:” making it easier to choose one in the future.6. After you enter the server path you want to access, click the “Connect” button.7. You will receive a message that you are attempting to connect to the server.8. In the next window you will select the “Registered user” radio button and enter “” and your NetID password.replace with your own NetID. Example: tuser9.
After you enter your username and password click the “Connect” button. If your information is entered correctly a Finder window will open showing you the space on the server.It may take a few moments for the available folders to show up depending on the speed of your computer and your internet connection.10. You can now access your files on the Divinity School servers. When you are finished working you should click on the Cisco AnyConnect icon in the menu bar and choose the option to disconnect.
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January 2023
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